[VIDEO] Covid-19 Delta variant: What experts know
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases explains the variant, which has been detected in Limpopo.
POLOKWANE – Limpopo Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba on Sunday, July 4, confirmed that the rapid spike in Covid-19 cases in the province since Tuesday, could be ascribed to the new Delta variant.
Read more: Limpopo Health MEC: Delta variant is here
Although a lot of uncertainty remains about the variant, largely to a lack of information available about it, there are some confirmed details.
According to a statement by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases‘ senior communications manager, Sinenhlanhla Jimoh, the Delta variant is becoming more dominant in Gauteng.
“In Gauteng, 64% of 244 genomes sequenced from May 2021 are attributed to the Beta variant, while in June 2021 this dropped to 37%. In contrast, during June, 53% of genomes (n=341) from Gauteng were the Delta variant,” she explained.
The NICD’s acting executive director, Prof Adrian Puren, warned that reinfection with the Delta variant is possible following a Beta infection, due to waning of immunity.
“We would like to assure the public that the institute is focusing their resources and research efforts towards understanding the variants and we would like to salute all healthcare workers who continue to fight bravely against Covid-19,” Puren added.
He said although many are suffering from Covid-19 fatigue and becoming relaxed in exercising preventative measures, compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions cannot be emphasised enough.
“For the sake of yourselves and your loved ones, wash or sanitise your hands, wear your masks and maintain physical distance of 1,5m from others. Remember to avoid gatherings and to roll up your sleeve once the Covid-19 vaccine becomes available to you,” Puren concluded.
