GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - According to a statement the Garden Route District Municipality (GDRM) received from the National Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) (www.gcis.gov.za) about the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus this afternoon, Saturday 27 November, the new variant is being monitored.
“The World Health Organisation has designated Omicron as a variant of concern. Omicron poses an increased risk of reinfection and has a high number of mutations," reads the statement.
"Although we must continue to be extra cautious by observing all Covid-19 protocols and vaccinating as soon as possible, there is no cause for concern. South Africa's scientists continue to monitor the potency and spread of the new variant to see if it’s gaining momentum and spreading more widely. Citizens will immediately be informed if any additional precautions or protocols are required."
The GCIS gave the assurance that it will continue acting in the best interests of humanity.
“We are duty-bound as responsible global citizens to report any new variants of concern to the international community. Our world-class scientific expertise and monitoring allow us to speedily identify and track the spread of any new variants of concern," the statement reads." "It is unfortunate that our openness and transparency has resulted in renewed travel restrictions by a number of countries. South Africa makes decisions based on science, and we call on others to do the same. All available evidence suggests that interventions such as masking up, vaccination, social distancing and washing of hands are more effective than a blanket ban on movement.”
According to GCIS, vaccination remains the best defence. Vaccinating not only reduces the chances of serious illness, hospitalisation and death, but also the risk of future deadly variants.
“We must all continue to choose vaccination as our first line of defence. Vaccines are effective and free and will ensure that we keep each other and our loved ones safe."
It said infections are beginning to rise in various parts of the country and called on South Africans to act responsibly as we begin to prepare for the end of the year.
"We must continue to do what has kept us safe all this time by wearing masks at all times, social distancing and washing our hands with soap and water or sanitiser. We all need to be cautious and consider the effect of our actions on others. Avoid large crowds, especially in indoor spaces where there might be little or no proper ventilation. We must continue to be vigilant when we visit friends and family over the festive season. Large-scale events are Covid-19 super spreader events, and large gatherings that involve the consumption of alcohol are an even bigger risk. Wherever possible, hold events of family gatherings outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces. Try and keep gatherings as small as possible. If you are travelling on public transport, keep your mask on at all times and open a window. When indoors, ensure the space is properly ventilated.”
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