Fifth wave of the coronavirus for the winter season

 The Health Department stated that it was closely observing COVID-19 cases, as there had been a recent rise of cases both provincially and national. Experts predict that by winter a fifth wave is likely to coincide as early as May.

Western Cape, as of April 23 reported 4 560 active cases of the virus the province since the start of the pandemic recorded 21 930 Covid-19-related deaths. Hospital admissions, remain low at 165 across public and private hospitals.

Department spokesperson Mark van der Heever said that they are seeing increases in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, driven by the new Omicron sublineages identified (BA.4 and BA.5).

“There is a very small number of specimens with BA.4 in the Western Cape and work is under way to understand virus phenotype and potential impact.”

“Should the need arise, the department would be able to reopen quarantine and isolation facilities, said Van der Heever.

National Health Department spokesperson Foster Mohale said the department has noted with concern the current spike of Covid-19 infections in some parts of the country, and urged people to take extra measures to protect themselves.

by Everngelista Muza