SA enters 'new phase of pandemic' as Ramaphosa eases raft of restrictions
Updated | By Gcinokuhle Malinga
South Africa's national state of disaster will remain in
place for now.
But President Cyril Ramaphosa says we're ready to enter a new phase in our management of the Covid- 19 pandemic.
Speaking to the nation on Tuesday evening, he announced several major changes to the regulations.
The wearing of masks outdoors isn't a requirement anymore.
The president said other restrictions can come to an end, but this will depend on vaccine coverage.
Ramaphosa says only 35% of people aged between 18 and 35 years have received the jab - which is concerning.
"Our most important defences against the disease are, firstly, vaccination and secondly, the observance of basic measures such as wearing masks indoors.
"The further easing of the remaining restrictions will require that we increase the rate of vaccination among South Africans. The vaccine has been shown to significantly reduce severe illness.
"Statistics from our health facilities, clearly show that people who are not vaccinated stand a higher chance of being hospitalised or dying from Covid-19."
Travel restrictions for international tourists entering the country have been eased.
"Travellers entering South Africa will need to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours. All unvaccinated travellers entering the country who want to be vaccinated will be offered a vaccination," Ramaphosa added.
With regards to social distancing, a space of 1-metre needs to be maintained between people everywhere, except schools.
A total of 912 new cases of the virus were registered in the last 24-hour period - which represent a 4.7% positivity rate. One person has died - bringing our pandemic death toll to 99 893.
Ramaphosa says the maximum number of people allowed to attend a funeral has been increased from 100 to 200.
READ: No more Covid masks outdoors, sport stadiums to open up
Night vigils are still not allowed.
The sports, entertainment, and event industries can breathe a sigh of relief.
"Both indoor and outdoor venues can now take up to 50% of their capacity provided that the criteria for entrance are proof of vaccination or a Covid test not older than 72 hours," Ramaphosa said.
MORE FROM ECR
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 22 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 22 hours ago