Phaahla: Mask mandate to remain in place
Health Minister Joe Phaahla says the wearing of masks will remain mandatory in public spaces, despite a decrease in Covid-19 infections.
Phaahla and Deputy Minister Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo briefed the media on Friday to provide an update on the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic and the government’s vaccination campaign.
“At this stage we have not been advised to go this route,” Phaahla said.
“Again, I want to emphasise that we are the lead department which advises the National CoronavirusCommand Council and also Cabinet. We are also advised by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on the Covid. At this venture we have not been advised into dropping the mask.”
Statistics released by the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) on Thursday night reported a10.6% positivity rate.
On Wednesday this figure stood at 8%.
Phaahla admitted the latest Covid-19 figures are a bit confusing.
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“The last 14 days, including the last seven days, have given us a confusing picture. We have seen a less resilient decline in infections. The picture was that of a stalemate where there’s no serious decline and yet no worrying rises in infections. Instead of the curve flattening it has taken the shape of a plateau.”
While vaccination rate remains relatively slow, the country has managed to administer over 30 million Covid-19 jabs.
South Africans over the age of 60 continue to lead the pack.
“The over 60 years continue to lead the pack at 67, 25 coverage, 50+ at 63,15% , 35-49 years at 51% and lastly the most difficult to convince the 18-34 at 33%,” added Phaahla.
