GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Garden Route District has seen a 56 % increase in cases in the last seven days compared to the previous seven days. 

The district had an increase of 1 225 new Covid-19 cases in the past seven days.

All sub-districts had large percentage increases, except Bitou, which has essentially maintained the status quo. George sub-district in particular had a big increase.

All district hospitals are starting to feel pressure with an increase in admissions. This is especially so for Oudtshoorn, Mossel Bay and Riversdale hospitals. The department however confirms that the supply of oxygen to hospitals in the province is under control. 

There are now a total of 1 520 deaths. This is an additional 66 deaths compared to the total of last week.

There are now 778 active cases per 100 000. One week ago it was 580.

COVID-19 stats as at 12 July 2021:

Vaccination roll-out

Due to a smaller supply of vaccines, the district had to make adjustments to the schedule for the week 12 to 16 July. The Garden Route vaccination sites will be prioritising people over the age of 60 coming for their first or second dose and people over the age 50 years coming for their first dose. A reduced number of walk-in clients will be accommodated this week.

The district has to date vaccinated nearly 60 000 people. This includes health care workers, old age homes, public vaccination sites and the teacher programme.

Vaccination sites and dates for week 12 to 16 July 2021:

Keeping safe during the third wave 

We are currently in the midst of an established third wave of Covid-19 infections. The best way we can protect each other is to avoid social gatherings outside our immediate home environment and protect our ‘bubble’. This is your ‘safe space’. Thus, let’s keep this behaviour going for the next few weeks, to break the chain of transmission and flatten the curve.

We can avoid a transmission chain from setting in by protecting our air space.

• Avoid all large gatherings;
• Avoid any social gatherings where possible;
• If you need to go out to do activities such as shopping, always wear your mask and keep it short;
• If you must meet, keep it outdoors, small and short;
• When indoors, dress warmly and ensure the windows are open so your space is well ventilated with fresh air;
• If sick, stay home.

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