We are reaching the end of the first month of 2022, and while January normally feels longer than most months, it is exacerbated by the ever-looming threat of COVID-19 in South Africa.

While we have not seen any surges in infections in recent weeks, we are still to shake off the effects of the fourth wave and Omicron variant of the virus.

This as 3 342 new cases have been reported in the past 24 hours, according to the latest report from the National Department of Health (NDoH). Consequently, the total number of infections recorded to date now sits at 3 603 856.

The department also notes that the recovery rate has risen slightly to 95.6 percent, with 3 443 535 recoveries reported and over 22.25 million tests conducted to date.

As for fatalities, a concerning 117 have been recorded over the past 24 hours, as the death toll related to COVID-19 in South Africa climbs to 95 022.

It is why the vaccine rollout effort is so important at this stage, especially if the country aims to stave off the effect of future waves of infection.

For now, turnout remains low, with 4 742 jabs administered in the past 24 hours, 880 of which were boosters. As of 17:00 on 30th January 2022, a total of 29 812 348 vaccines have been administered across SA.

The full outlook for COVID-19 in South Africa follows on below:

• COVID-19 Connect on WhatsApp – add 0600 123 456 as a contact and say “Hi”.
• World Health Organisation
• SA Coronavirus website
• SA Government
• SA Presidency

[Image – CC 0 Pixabay]