South Africa, as of mid-April 2020, has according to the latest report in Sciencemag.org flattened the curve of the rate of coronavirus infections. South Africa is into its third week of COVID-19 lockdown and this will continue at least until the end of April. The nation is, like many countries around the globe, looking to ease restrictions and resume some degree of functionality. I thought that many of our readers, here at African Vibe would appreciate an update on South Africa: Coronavirus news. The Minister of Health Zweli Mkhize has a team of scientists advising the government about the possible next phase of response to this global pandemic.
COVID-19: How It Began in South Africa
The first coronavirus infection was detected in South Africa on the 5th of March 2020. Following this the epidemic charted an exponential curve, which was quite similar to that of the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Then, on the 15th of March the South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa announced a national state of emergency, which prevented overseas visitors from high-risk countries entering South Africa. Next, on the 27th of March came a 3-week lockdown, which involved closing all borders and confining residents to their homes. Those performing essential services were exempted from these restrictions.
The Lockdown Has Flattened the Curve in South Africa
This lockdown has been extended up until the end of April. The lockdown has dramatically reduced the number of daily infections. Today, the average constant is around 70 new cases per day. There are 2 415 confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection and 27 deaths. Speculation about low levels of testing in poorer communities has been disputed by Salim Abdool Karim a scientist who chairs the South African COVID-19 advisory group. He says that there has been increased testing within these poorer communities. The lockdown has been very effective in flattening the curve in South Africa.
Karim does not think that South Africa will, however, avoid a future surge in coronavirus cases. Rather, he considers, that the lockdown has bought the nation some much needed time to prepare. Tens of thousands of community health workers have been sent into villages and townships to screen and test people. They will attempt to control outbreaks within areas and prevent the spread of the virus. Field hospitals are being erected and the nation is expanding its capacity for burials. South Africa: Coronavirus news is better than expected right now, but things could take a not unexpected turn for the worse in the not too distant future. We here at African Vibe wish our very best for all South Africans everywhere.
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