GEORGE NEWS - The start of the second Covid-19 wave in George originated in the age group 18 to 24 and the initial infections were a result of social gatherings.
From the people attending these 'super spreader' social events and pubs, the virus was carried over to other community members to eventually evolve into established community transmission, says Garden Route Disaster Management Chief Gerhard Otto.
"The first Covid peak of the resurgence started in Thembalethu followed by Pacaltsdorp. Now it is everywhere."
During Premier Alan Winde's digital conference on Thursday 3 December, a graph presented by Western Cape head of Health Dr Keith Cloete showed the possible locations of infections in the Garden Route during October.
42% of cases were infections as a result of a social event or contact with a friend and 35% of people were infected at home by a family member, followed by infections at the workplace (11%), universities/ schools (4%), hospital/doctors’ rooms (3%), shop/ market (2%), public transport/taxi/ flight (1%), place of worship (1%), and gym/exercise studio (1%).
This graph of the spread in the Garden Route was drawn up in October.Party time = Covid time
Despite messages from government that gatherings are the biggest culprit, Local Government Minister Anton Bredell says there are still reports of parties and other large social gatherings in parts of the province that have led to multiple confirmed infections.
The organisers of the Plett Rage confirmed late yesterday afternoon that the event has been cancelled.
"This is not the time to hold big parties, regardless the reason. If we wish to have a safe, happy festive season, it is critical to keep our guard up and be responsible. Beware of the three Cs: crowded areas, confined spaces and close contact."
Related article: No Plett Rage for the Class of 2020
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