Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update

For Immediate Release
21 June 2021

The Garden Route District has seen a 105 % increase in cases the last 7 days compared to 7 – 14 days ago.  All sub-districts had large percentage increases.

None of our district hospitals are currently under pressure, but we are seeing an increase in admissions.

George Hospital is not under pressure, but has had a big increase in admissions. Harry Comay Hospital is commissioning a 20-bed Covid ward to provide support for step-down patients from George Hospital.

COVID-19 stats as of 21 June 2021

What follows a social gathering

Without being aware of it you may have picked up the virus after spending time with friends and family. As you then return home, back to work, back to school, or visit an elderly and vulnerable person – all these people who you have come into contact are now also at risk of being infected. They in turn continue with their daily routine – return back to their primary environment which could be there homes or workplace.

Here they then can pass on the virus to their household members. And so the transmission chain continues to grow, and spreads faster.

We can avoid a transmission chain from setting in by protecting our air space. We need to break the chain of transmission – here is how:

• Avoid large gatherings;
• Also, avoid social gatherings which are outside your immediate household;
• If you need to go out, always wear your mask;
• If you need to meet up, keep it outdoors, small and short;
• When gathering indoors, dress warmly and ensure the windows are open so your space is well ventilated with fresh air;
• If sick, stay home

 Vaccination roll-out

A total of 26 878 vaccines have been administered since the start of the vaccine program. This includes healthcare workers, old age homes and public sites.

 Over the last few weeks, we have come across several misconceptions about being vaccinated. We would like to remind the public that the vaccine gives great protection against severe illness and death.

However, it does not offer a guarantee that you will not contract (or transmit) Covid-19. So even if you have been vaccinated, and do not practice the necessary safety measures, you can still contract the virus, albeit a mild disease. It is therefore crucially important that we continue to adhere to the golden rules of keeping safe as set out above.

 The following sites in the Garden Route District will administer vaccinations on the following days for week 21 – 25 June.

Please remember that we prioritise those who are registered and have received their appointment.

Disclaimer: Dates and sites are subject to change.

ENDS

Nadia Ferreira
Principal Communications Officer
Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts
Western Cape Government Health
Town Clinic, Plettenberg Bay
Tel: 044 813 1831
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za 
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za