The National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC), which President Cyril Ramaphosa chairs, is expected to discuss the possibiliy of tightening lockdown restrictions in light of a rise in infections in the country.

72 more people have succumbed to COVID-related complications. This takes the national death toll to 55 874.

The latest numbers of infections continue to raise concerns for the government. However, the second rollout of COVID-19 vaccines continues without any hindrances thus far.

The elderly and those with underlying conditions are the focus for the second phase of the roll-out.

After the NCCC meeting, President Cyril Ramaphosa usually addresses the nation on how the government will further put measures in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. Anticipation is that he might put some lockdown restrictions.

President Ramaphosa raises concern about a possible third wave of coronavirus infections in SA:

Meanwhile, Limpopo health authorities say there are strong indications that the province is gradually entering the third wave of coronavirus (COVID-19) infections. Limpopo was one of the epicentres during the height of the second wave of the pandemic.

Health MEC, Doctor Phophi Ramathuba, says they are currently focusing on ensuring that a large number of the province’s population is vaccinated.

“We are worried by Waterberg district and especially Mookgophong Modimolle Municipality and Thabazimbi. One of the indicators, which is the weekly active cases incidents, which is supposed to be per hundred thousand people below 20 for you to say you are a bit safe. The overall province is at 6.1, Thabazimbi is already at 46 and Modimolle Mookgophong is already at 40.”

Source: SABC