Faizel Patel – 03/12/2020
President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is now clear evidence of a resurgence of COVID-19 infections in parts the country, which, if not confronted decisively and directly, could lead to great suffering and death.
Ramphosa was addressing the nation on Thursday night in connection with the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The president has officially declared Nelson Mandela Bay a Coronavirus hotspot due to the spike in infections in the metro during the past 14 days.
Ramaphosa says the main reason for the spread of the virus is people not wearing masks and a lack of proper hygiene.
He says additional restrictions would be put in place on movement, alcohol consumption, and gatherings.
Ramaphosa this is in order to contain the spread of the virus, save lives, and lessen the impact on the province’s health services.
“Following a recommendation of the National Coronavirus Command Council and after consultation with Premiers, metro mayors and traditional leaders, Cabinet has decided to declare the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality a coronavirus hotspot. In addition to the existing Alert Level 1 regulations, the following additional restrictions will apply in Nelson Mandela Bay Metro with effect from midnight tonight. The hours of the curfew will be from 10pm and 4am.”
Ramaphosa says social, cultural and religious gatherings are also being held in large numbers.
“In many cases these gatherings are often attended by many more people than what is permitted under Level 1 restrictions. What is concerning is that these are also often held in venues with poor ventilation.”
Ramaphosa says we must change our behaviour now to prevent a resurgence of the virus and manage outbreaks wherever they occur.
“If we think of this pandemic like a bush fire, we need to quickly extinguish the flare ups before they turn into an inferno.”
Ramaphosa also announced that the National State of Disaster has been extended to the 15th of January 2021.
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