New Covid rules: Kids must still wear masks in class, says health dept

Schoolchildren still have to wear masks in classrooms under the new Covid-19 rules, according to the Department of Health.

Initially, the department released a statement stipulating that masks were scrapped as a requirement at schools, but quickly retracted this.

“Children like other people are expected to continue complying with the provisions of regulation on face masks in the classroom and general indoor gatherings,” department spokesperson Foster Mohale said.

However, masks were not compulsory when outside such as on playgrounds and sports fields.

“Face masks are an effective non-pharmaceutical intervention against the spread of the Covid-19 virus, and it is more relevant now as the number of Covid-19 positive cases is rising once again.”

On Wednesday, health minister Joe Phaahla announced the extension of three months for public comments in proposed regulations which, once approved, would be implemented in the absence of the Covid-19 disaster management act.

Some of the regulations proposed:

– Wearing of masks remain compulsory when using public transport and indoor public places.

– Indoor gatherings may occupy up to 50% of the venue capacity if people provide valid vaccine certificates. Without proof of vaccination, indoor gatherings are limited to only 1 000 people or 50% venue capacity. Also, one should have a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test of not more than 72 hours old if without a vaccination certificate. The same rules apply for outdoor gatherings, but these shall be limited to 2 000 people or 50% of the capacity of the venue.

– All international travellers arriving in the country must be vaccinated against Covid-19 and produce a valid vaccination certificate; or produce a valid negative PCR Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours before the date of departure.

– In a case where an international traveller is unable to produce a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result older than 72 hours or a negative antigen test result obtained at least 48 hours prior departure, then he/she must undergo antigen testing at arrival.

– If the person tests positive for Covid-19 on arrival, the traveller will still be admitted into the country but, if the traveller is experiencing symptoms of Covid­-19, they must self-isolate a period of 10 days after admission.

– The vaccination or testing requirements are not applicable to travellers who are younger than 12 years and/or are daily commuters from neighbouring countries.

– Hospitality venues such as hotels and guest houses are allowed to operate at full capacity with patrons wearing masks in common spaces.

The new closing date for submission of public comments has been set for July 5.

Comments can be sent to this e-mail: legalreviews@health.gov.za

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