Covid-19 update: 97 302 cases recorded in SA, Western Cape to peak
It appears highly likely that South Africa will surpass 100 000 Covid-19 infections on Monday. Briefly.co.za explores the latest updates on the pandemic wreaking havoc in the country.
PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed!
South Africa has recorded over 97 000 Covid-19 infections and the hardest-hit Western Cape province is expected to hit peak infections soon.
Briefly.co.za takes a look at the latest news on the pandemic in SA:
1. South Africa records 97 302 Covid-19 cases
Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize has updated the nation on the current statistics relating to the Covid-19 pandemic in SA.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the Health Ministry confirmed another spike in cases:
"As of today, the cumulative number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Africa is 97 302 with 4 621 new cases identified."
53 new fatalities have been reported by the minister, who further noted that:
"Regrettably, we report a further 53 Covid-19 related deaths: 8 from Gauteng, 1 from KwaZulu-Natal, 17 from Eastern Cape and 27 from Western Cape. This brings the total deaths to 1 930. We wish to express our condolences to the loved ones of the departed and thank the healthcare workers who treated the deceased. The mortality rate is 1.98%."
READ ALSO: Taxi strike: Stranded commuters opt to walk to save their jobs
2. Western Cape expected to hit Covid-19 peak soon
The Western Cape is expected to reach its peak Covid-19 infections soon with the elderly and sick advised to lock down.
Representing 52.9% of the nation's total positive cases, 350 people have died over the past week alone.
News24 reports that Premier Alan Winde has urged the province to prepare for the peak:
"Some epidemiological models, including the National Covid-19 Epi Model (NCEM), which is relied on by the national government for forecasting, have estimated that the province will experience its peak soon.
"While we cannot pinpoint the exact date at which we will reach this peak, we are experiencing increased pressure in our hospitals. At the same time, the economy is opening up further, with personal care services re-opening this weekend and other sectors expected to open soon. Now is therefore the time to be extra vigilant to slow the spread."
3. Taxi strike brings Gauteng commute to a standstill
The taxi industry is striking on Monday after the government announced a R1 billion relief fund to limit the economic effects of Covid-19.
However, this has been snubbed as insufficient by the sector who took to the streets to protest the perceived lack of support.
Briefly.co.za reported that Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula had made it clear that the government simply doesn't have the funds to offer the sector more.
Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!
Source: Briefly News
