COVID-19 Third Wave: Adjusted Alert Level 4

by | Jun 28, 2021 | Newsletters

COVID-19 Third Wave: Adjusted Alert Level 4

It has been confirmed that South Africa is in the third wave of infections, which is as a result of the infectious Delta variant of the COVID-19, and which has been detected in 5 of South Africa’s provinces.

According to statistics, Gauteng accounts for more than 60% of new infections.

President Cyril Ramaphosa convened a ‘family meeting’ on Sunday, 27 June 2021, in terms of which, President Ramaphosa has implemented a move to adjusted alert level 4, with additional restrictions, as of 28 June 2021 to 11 July 2021.

President Ramaphosa has confirmed the following measures:

  • All gatherings are strictly prohibited.
  • Funerals are restricted to a maximum of 50 people. Night vigils and so called ‘after tears gatherings’ are prohibited.
  • The curfew has been confirmed to be between 21h00 to 04h00, and non-essential establishments are required to be closed by 20h00.
  • Travel into and out of Gauteng is permitted only for work, the transport of goods, funerals or to return home. Travel into and out of Gauteng for the purpose of leisure is prohibited. However, the travel between other provinces is permitted.
  • Restaurants are only permitted to sell food for take away and/or deliveries.
  • The closure of public and private schools has been brought forward, and schools will commence closing on 30 June 2021, and all schools should be closed by the end of the week, i.e. Friday, 2 July 2021.
  • The sale of alcohol is prohibited, whether for on-site or off-site consumption.
  • Businesses that remain operational are required to maintain all protocols in place, i.e.
    • Practising social distancing.
    • Adhering to the measures implemented by the employer in curbing the spread of the disease.
    • Washing / sanitising hands on a regular basis.
    • Wearing of cloth masks.
    • Ventilation
    • Where required, the wearing of the necessary PPE.
  • Employers are encouraged to allow their employees to work from home.
  • All retail stores remain open, and factories, mines, farms and other businesses will continue to operate.
  • Individuals are reminded to always wear a cloth mask in public, and that it is a criminal offence not to wear a face mask in public. The importance of wearing a cloth mask, to cover both the mouth and nose, was emphasised by the President.
  • Details of the vaccination roll out were explained, and the President urged individuals who qualify to register to receive their vaccine.
  • President Ramaphosa confirmed that the vaccines were effective, and that the spreading of fake news regarding the ineffectiveness and dangers of vaccines is not encouraged.
  • Qualifying individuals can register for a vaccine in the following manner:
    • Using the on-line 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.

The contents of this article are for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice please contact our offices.