Chamber calls for stringent Covid protocol adherence as new variant emerges
Given the emergence of a new strain of Covid-19 and the pending fourth wave, we urge businesses to ensure that they are adhering to the required Covid safety protocol, says Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber CEO Denise van Huyssteen.
Yesterday, Health Minister Dr Joseph Phaahla addressed a press conference to confirm that a new variant B.1.1.529 has been detected in South Africa and appears to be driving the surge in Covid-19 cases. According to the NCID, South Africa has started to see a renewed surge in Covid-19 case numbers, particularly in the most-populous province of Gauteng. There were 2,465 infections recorded on Thursday, up from fewer than 900 two days previously, with the positivity rate or the ratio between cases and tests - rising to 6.5%.
“We have been through three waves already and know the serious risks and threats associated with the virus, as well as the patterns and actions which are likely to emerge,” she emphasises. “Let’s get ahead of the curve, take the appropriate precautions and thus prevent the spread of the virus from escalating and impacting upon our local economy.”
With the festive season upon us and year-end functions set to take place, Nelson Mandela Bay residents and our visitors are urged to not allow covid fatigue to set in and to exercise extra caution by acting responsibly and adhering to safety protocols at all times. Businesses must reinforce safety protocols within the workplace, and establishments such as shopping malls, where they can expect an influx of customers over the holidays, should elevate their security measures throughout their operations.
Van Huyssteen says that it is concerning that currently only around 40% of our adult population in Nelson Mandela Bay have been vaccinated. “Achieving herd immunity is key in mitigating the risks associated with Covid-19 and as such we urge people who have not done so to prioritise getting vaccinated. We all have a responsibility not only towards ourselves but also to those we get in contact with by ensuring we do everything necessary to protect them.”
The consequences of allowing Covid fatigue to set in, could potentially result in restrictions being placed on our economy which in turn would have a detrimental impact, particularly upon the tourism and hospitality sectors, who have already suffered immensely. “Let’s all take the required actions which are in the best interests of the citizens and local economy as a whole, and which ultimately are focused at saving lives and jobs.”