Coronavirus cases: When will the Western Cape reach its peak?

Premier Alan Winde has told citizens of the Western Cape that, although the province is far from being out of the woods with its coronavirus numbers, there may be some light at the end of the tunnel.

When will coronavirus cases peak in the Western Cape?

The veteran politician has explained the scientific data is showing that the amount of new cases being reported in the region is set to hit its peak ‘soon’. The epidemiological models used here are also the ones which shape the government’s response to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Some will see this as good news, as the Western Cape finally shows signs of coming ‘out the other side’. Others, however, will be alarmed that the caseload hasn’t technically peaked yet, despite weeks of soaring infection rates. The province accounts for a large majority of coronavirus patients and fatalities in SA.

Infections, alcohol and cigarettes in the Western Cape

Sadly, Winde was unable to predict an exact date for the peak. But it looks as if cases will start to come down from July. The Premier also noted that locals need to be “extra vigilant” during Advanced Level 3, and although he warned wholesalers against the illegal alcohol trade, we still have no update on the current cigarette ban. There are now two challenges against the government awaiting a verdict in court.

“Some epidemiological models, including the National Covid-19 Epi Model (NCEM) which is relied on by the national government for forecasting, have estimated that the province will experience its coronavirus peak soon.”

“While we cannot pinpoint the exact date at which coronavirus will reach this peak, we are experiencing increased pressure in our hospitals. At the same time, the economy is opening up further, with personal care services re-opening this weekend and other sectors expected to open soon. Now is the time to be extra vigilant.”

“In terms of the booze ban, we are also exploring penalties for alcohol wholesalers who knowingly sell alcohol to illegal vendors, and one of the key deliverables for the department of community safety under the Western Cape safety plan is to change legislation to ensure cheap alcohol pricing is altered.”

Alan Winde