This week we reported in a concerning surge in the number of fatalities related to COVID-19 in South Africa.

While that particular figure has decreased in the past 24 hours, according to the latest report from the National Department of Health (NDoH), it is still a relatively high number as questions on whether these deaths are the result of the Omicron or Delta variants remain unanswered.

To that end, the department says 213 new fatalities have been reported, with no mention of the ongoing audit process that the NDoH is under, which means these figures are likely up to date. Consequently, the death toll related to COVID-19 in South Africa now sits at 96 502.

Looking at the other figures in the report, 3 628 new cases have been recorded, as the total number of infections to date has risen to 3 631 642.

The department also notes that the recovery rate has fallen by a point of a percent to 96.1 percent, with 3 491 626 recoveries being reported.

As for the vaccine rollout, the past 24 hours has seen 67 386 jabs administered, with this now being a key priority for government if we are indeed to better handle future waves of infection. As of 17:00 on 9th February, a total of 30 397 806 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 – Photo by De an Sun on Unsplash]