President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to convene the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) this Sunday to assess developments in the COVID-19 pandemic, including the emergence of the new B.1.1.529 variant.
Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele, said in a statement on Friday that the outcomes of that meeting will be “communicated in the coming days”.
He said the detection of the new variant is a testament to the high level of scientific research at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).
“The detection by the…NICD of a new Coronavirus variant demonstrates South Africa’s constant vigilance and scientific capability in our management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The NICD is in intensive engagement with all established surveillance systems to understand the new variant and what the potential implications could be.
“While this work continues, South Africans must take all measures to protect themselves against Coronavirus infection, beginning with vaccination against COVID-19,” the Minister said.
Gungubele implored those living in South Africa to exercise extra care in observing COVID-19 precautions.
“Government urges South Africans to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and play their part in protecting themselves and the broader community by having themselves vaccinated, while scientists investigate a newly identified Coronavirus variant, B.1.1.529.
“Alongside vaccination, the wearing of face masks, frequent washing or sanitation of hands, keeping a social distance and the avoidance of gatherings remain a proven, effective means of stopping or slowing the spread of Coronavirus infection,” he said.
The Minister reminded people living in South Africa that the “virus has not been eradicated” with vaccination the only means to “protect us from serious illness, hospitalisation or death”.
“Vaccination is free to all people living in South Africa, and anyone aged 12 years and older is encouraged to vaccinate. Government urges all South Africans to vaccinate and to remain disciplined in applying the known safety measures, to ensure a safe and joyful festive season with families and friends,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
