Discussions underway over possible stricter lockdown during Easter, says Mkhize

Experts have warned that the country is on the verge of entering the third wave of Covid-19 that is expected to hit during Easter and gain momentum during the following long weekends and school holidays in April.

 

Speaking on SABC TV News on Wednesday evening, Mkhize said discussions are underway with various sectors of the economy.

 

He said some recommendations have been to ease restrictions further to boost the embattled economy.

 

 

“Well, we have to discuss, that matter is being finalized. I don’t have a full answer as we speak but there have been recommendations that there must be stricter lockdown in the sense of restrictions.

 

But then there are others who were requesting there should be the easing of those, so the consultative process takes into account the recommendations of the Ministerial Advisory Committee and the concerns from various sectors of the economy, various social sectors, churches and everyone.

 

All these have to be taken into account for the decision to be made in the best interest of the country,” said Mkhize.

 

Mkhize added that even if the vaccination rollout had already started, stricter non-pharmaceutical interventions would still need to be followed.

 

He believes South Africans can still adhere to the regulations when they are warned.

 

“We have to discourage any super spreader activities during Easter weekend.

 

“We also need to watch the interprovincial movement which can add itself towards superspreading, but we need to take into account the fact that South Africans have learned and understood the issues of social distancing so if advised there will be a better response” says Mkhize.