New changes to COVID-19 regulations

Cabinet has approved changes to the Adjusted Alert Level 1 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) regulations as South Africa has exited the fourth wave nationally.

“With the new changes, those who test positive with no symptoms, do not have to isolate," said Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele.

The isolation period has been reduced from 10 to seven days for individuals who test positive and experience symptoms.

Contacts of COVID-19 positive cases do not have to isolate unless they develop symptoms.

“Cabinet also reviewed the resumption of schooling to full-time learning in all schools.

“Primary, secondary and special schools will return to daily attendance. The regulatory provision for social distancing of one metre for learners in schools has also been removed,” he said.

The changes came after meetings of the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) and the President’s Coordinating Council (PCC), which received updates on the management of COVID-19 in South Africa.

“The rationale for these amendments is informed by the proportion of people with immunity to COVID-19, which has risen,” said Minister Gungubele.

He added that it was based on the trajectory of the pandemic and the levels of vaccination in the country, that Cabinet decided to make changes to Adjusted Alert Level 1. Government commended all South Africans who continue to observe COVID-19 regulations and protocols.

“We also remind those who are yet to get vaccinated to go for their COVID-19 vaccination and continue observing basic health protocols to prevent the transmission of the virus,” Minister Gungubele said. - SAnews.gov.za

For the latest COVID-19 vaccination sites, visit: https://sacoronavirus.co.za/active-vaccination-sites/