President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation tonight, June 15, announcing that stricter lockdown regulations will be implemented. South Africa has officially moved back to an adjusted lockdown level 3.
This recommendation follows South Africa officially entering the third wave. Ramaphosa indicted that over the last seven days, an average of 7 500 daily infections were recorded, with hospital admissions almost 60% higher than in the previous two weeks.
Restrictions have once again tightened on the sale of alcohol, making this the third ban the industry has seen since the first nationwide lockdown in March 2020. Other restrictions included an adjusted curfew, 9pm to 4am, and further limitations on gatherings, 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
Here’s a summary of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address:
- Although we have reason to hope, we still have a mountain to climb. A third wave of infections is upon us.
- Hospital admissions are 59% higher over the last two weeks.
- With the exception of the Northern Cape, all provinces are experiencing rising numbers.
- Gauteng has been worst hit.
- The number of new cases in Gauteng will surpass the peak of the second wave.
- Private hospitals are near capacity.
- We have to act decisively and quickly to save lives.
- Our priority now is to ensure there are enough hospital beds, nurses, ventilators, to give the best care to those who need it.
- Massive surge in new infections means we must once again enforce restrictions.
- Firmer action needs to be taken against those who
- The country moves to a new adjusted level 3.
Adjusted level 3:
- Curfew: 10pm – 4am. Non essential establishments must close by 9pm. All gatherings limited to max of 50 indoors, 100 outdoors. 50% capacity of venue.
- Funerals may not exceed 50 people. Night vigils, after tears, not allowed.
- Alcohol sales for take home consumption is allowed from Monday to Thursday, between 10am and 6pm, but excludes public holidays.
- Alcohol sales for on-site consumption will be permitted as per licence conditions up to 9pm. Alcohol consumption in all public spaces, such as beaches and parks, is strictly prohibited.
Vaccinations:
- Problems with J&J vaccine have been resolved.
- The Aspen plant in the Eastern Cape can go ahead with making new doses. The company has committed to ramping up production and can supply country in next few days.
- The initial batch will be used to vaccinate teachers and then security personnel on the front line.
- There is capacity to vaccinate 150 000 people a day. Ramaphosa would prefer 300 000 a day.
- As part of Phase 2 of the vaccination programme, everyone aged 60 and above is encouraged to register and get vaccinated.
- To date, close to 480 000 health care workers have been vaccinated and close to 1.5 million members of the public aged 60 and above.
Here are the four ways citizens can register for a vaccine:
- Online registration platform available on the SA Coronavirus website.
- Dialling *134*832# and registering via USSD.
- Sending the word “register” via WhatsApp to 0600 123 456.
- Calling the national toll-free call centre on 0800 029 999
Everybody is encouraged to avoid crowded spaces, ensure there is adequate ventilation, wear a mask and sanitise hands regularly.
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Picture: Twitter