The latest on Covid-19: New variant being monitored and state of disaster extended

National state of disaster extended as new Covid-19 variant is under NICD microscope

While the new Covid-19 variant, C.1.2, first identified in May in Gauteng and Mpumalanga, is being closely monitored by scientists, the South African government has approved the extension of the state of disaster by over a month, to October 15. Read the original story on The Citizen.

‘No vaccine, no alcohol’ message was misunderstood says Tshwane metro

Tshwane Mayor Randall Williams has clarified what he meant when he said ‘no vaccine, no alcohol’. Read more here.

Youth become vaccine ‘influencers’ in KZN

The over-18 age group is leading KwaZulu-Natal’s vaccination process as the province faces the third wave of the deadly Covid-19 virus. Speaking at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Mayville on August 29, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala said young people, who are so enthusiastic about being vaccinated, could positively influence older generations to also get the jab. Read the full story on Berea Mail.

Health authorities urge pregnant women to get Covid-19 vaccine

Pregnant women and those who are planning to conceive are encouraged to get the Covid-19 vaccine. This is according to the recommendation by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Covid-19 Vaccines, which continues to monitor the safety and effectiveness of inoculation during pregnancy and lactation for all vaccines included in and considered in the country’s roll-out programme. For more details, read the full story on Northglen News.

Covid-19 wreaks havoc within SAPS ranks

The SAPS has been weakened by the loss of at least 800 of its members to Covid-19 and is facing a recruitment delay. Read more here.

Covid-19 fatigue kicks in as many defy lockdown regulations

According to the SAPS, 465 098 people have been charged with contravening the Disaster Management Act since March 27, 2020, The Citizen reports.