DAY 8 LOCKDOWN, 3 April 2020

South Africa has recorded 1,505 confirmed cases of COVID-19 positive patients and 9 related deaths. This is an increase of 43 new cases from yesterday. Of the 9 reported deaths, 7 are confirmed and 2 are awaiting verification according to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD).

Gauteng has the highest number of cases at 672. This means that 45% of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country are in Gauteng. The province has also reported a single death. Other provinces that have reported deaths are KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape and Free State.

The Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula, at a press briefing today said 146 roadblocks were implemented by law enforcement agencies nationwide as part of national lockdown enforcement strategy. Gauteng had the most number of vehicles(231) that were impounded. The vehicles were attempting to travel to other provinces.

Mbalula reiterated that traveling from one province to another is strictly prohibited. In addition, effective from 21:00 tonight. Public transport is only permitted to operate during morning and afternoon peak times of 05:00 to 10:00 and 16:00 to 21:00 respectively. Taxis were allowed to operate the whole day during ‘grant’ week.

Coming home, Greater Ivory Park has been identified as one of the most problematic areas during the lockdown so far according to the City of Johannesburg MMC for Health, Eunice Mgcina. Greater Ivory Park consists of Ivory Park, Ebony Park, Kaalfontein, Rabie Ridge, Phomolong and Mayibuye.

We appeal to our readers to continue adhering to lockdown regulations and stay at home to contain this deadly virus.