Please adhere to Level 2 restrictions to stop COVID-19 infections

The country is headed towards a third wave of COVID-19 infections. It is not known yet how severe this wave will be or how long it will last. This means that each of us needs to think about all the people we meet each day and do everything we can to limit those contacts.

Sometimes it is unavoidable to be in contact with other people, such as at work or when shopping or in public transport. In such cases, it is important that we strictly observe all the health protocols by wearing a mask, keeping a safe distance from others and ensuring proper ventilation in buildings and vehicles.

Wherever possible, we should cut down on our physical interaction with other people during this time. Postponing social engagements, avoiding public spaces and not travelling unless necessary are all measures that can contribute to stopping the spread of COVID-19.

Gatherings are the greatest source of transmission, whether it be weddings, funerals, parties, religious services, political meetings or simply gatherings of family and friends. We must remember that the virus does not move from place to place by itself – it relies on the movement of people.

According to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the recent surge in new infections is due to the increasing number of social gatherings where people are not observing essential health protocols.

Further restrictions are being imposed to ensure that the healthcare sector is not overwhelmed and to allow as many people as possible to be vaccinated before the third wave reaches its peak.

The restrictions which were introduced under the adjusted Level 2 lockdown include the following:

• An evening curfew from 23:00 to 04:00.
• Non-essential establishments such as restaurants and bars must close at 22:00 to allow staff to travel home before the curfew.
• All gatherings are limited to 100 people indoors and 250 people outdoors.
• Where a venue is too small to accommodate these numbers of people with appropriate social distancing, then no more than 50% of its capacity can be used.
• Funerals remain restricted to 100 people, while after-funeral gatherings remain prohibited.
• Night vigils and after-funeral gatherings (“after-tears” gatherings) are not allowed.

If all of us make this effort now, we will help to flatten the curve of infections. We will reduce the pressure on our hospitals and, in doing so, we will save many lives.