Health experts are sounding the alarm following reports of a spike in positive Covid-19 tests. Although not indicative of a third wave yet, they agree that the recent Easter long weekend was a contributory factor.

As the country prepares for another long weekend during which Freedom Day and Workers Day holidays will be observed, fears are that the break – often characterised by cross-provincial travel – will exacerbate Covid-19 infections even further.

Dr Hazel Mufhandu, a virologist from the North-West University (NWU), agrees that the recent increase in the number of Covid-19 cases is a result of the Easter holidays/weekend. According to her, this is similar to what the country experienced during the December 2020 holidays.

The latest official statistics released early this week, indicated that the North-West Province was the third to register a spike in infections during the post-Easter period, with two other inland provinces (Northern Cape and Free State) having registered the most cases.

Despite not having been able to provide specific hospitalisation data, Russel Meiring from ER 24 medical services advises members of the public to continue practising the current procedures at all times, which includes wearing an appropriate mask, sanitising with an appropriate hand-sanitiser and maintaining social distancing.

Dr Mufhandu reiterates Russel’s statement, and urges NWU students and staff as well as members of the public to continue to observe all Covid-19 safety protocols, since South Africa has not yet reached herd immunity coverage with its vaccination programme.

Sound clip: Dr Hazel Mufhandu

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