Long weekend: Public urged to be vigilant amid third wave peak

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, during his weekly digital conference on Thursday, announced that the province is officially in the peak of the COVID-19 third wave. As we approach a Woman’s Day long weekend, he said it is crucial that residents take extra precautions. 

‘LET’S BE SAFE AND VIGILANT OVER THE LONG WEEKEND’ – WINDE 

While the long weekend is meant for relaxation and the celebration of all women, it is also a time to take extra precautions as the Western Cape is officially in the peak of the third wave. 

“It is extremely important that every single resident takes personal responsibility in protecting themselves and their loved ones during our peak, particularly over the long weekend,” he said. 

Winde said residents need to be responsible on the roads and with their use of alcohol as the hospitals are under immense pressure. 

“We are simultaneously monitoring the number of trauma admissions to our hospitals to ensure that we have enough capacity in our hospitals and that we can proactively identify any risks so that they can be addressed,” he said.

Winde said South Africa’s shift back to alert level 3 has meant a later curfew and the weekday off-site sale of alcohol. He said this resulted in an increase in trauma cases at the hospitals. 

“As we approach the Women’s Day long weekend, we again urge residents to be responsible. Please do not drink and drive, and do not drink excessively. Please travel safely, and ensure that you do not speed. If you are travelling over a longer distance, make sure you plan your trip, and make lots of stops. Please also remember to avoid crowded places, and to ensure any meeting is short, small and outside with good ventilation,” he added. 

WESTERN CAPE RESIDENTS GIVEN HOMEWORK 

Winde asked that Western Cape residents please:

• Wear their masks properly, covering their nose and mouth;
• Wash and sanitise their hands regularly;
• Avoid crowded places, confined spaces and close contact;
• Keep gatherings short, small and outdoors – with lots of ventilation;
• Drink responsibly and do not drink and drive;
• Get vaccinated when it is their turn;
• Stay home if they feel sick;
• Help protect those at highest risk – especially those who are older, and those with comorbidities; and 
• Continue to protect their family bubble.

“Let’s play our part and break the chain of transmission so that we can save lives and livelihoods in the Western Cape and South Africa,” he added. 

READ: Vaccinations: Western Cape approaches herd immunity among those 60 and older