Over 1 400 new Covid-19 cases, as government waits for more J&J jabs to arrive
Updated | By Jacaranda FM
South Africa has reported 1 413 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours leading up to Thursday evening.
This as the country waits for a million more Johnson & Johnson vaccines to arrive over the weekend and for government to give the green light to continue with its vaccination drive.
READ: Resumption of J&J vaccine rollout will be announced soon: Ntshavheni
On Thursday, Cabinet welcomed the recommendation by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) to lift the suspension on the Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
The use of the vaccines was suspended earlier this month following a similar decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.
The reason for the suspension, given by both the FDA and Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize, is to give authorities a chance to re-evaluate a possible causal link between the vaccine and six cases in America where women developed blood clots in the brain, coupled with low platelets.
READ: Probe into Umlazi principal over abuse of power allegations
However, South Africa had not reported any cases of clotting since the phase 3B clinical trial began in February.
Meanwhile, the total number of Covid-19 cases in South Africa is now standing at 1 571 348.
The country has 20 597 active cases.
In his latest report, Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize reported 55 new Covid-19 related deaths.
Limpopo, North West and Northern Cape reported zero fatalities.
Mpumalanga 1, Kwa-Zulu Natal 3, Western Cape 6, Eastern Cape 11, Free State 14, and Gauteng 20 fatalities.
This brings the total to 53 995 deaths.
“We convey our condolences to the loved ones of the departed and thank the health care workers who treated the deceased,” says Mkhize.
The country’s recoveries stand at 1 496 756, representing a recovery rate of 95%.
Show's Stories
-
Chinese sightseeing destination looking to hire a Monkey King
You can be a Monkey King for an easy R15k a month.
Carol Ofori 23 hours ago -
Woman shows us what she does when dating apps don't work
We guess this method of finding the one is worth the risk...
Vic Naidoo 23 hours ago