Domestic, international travel bans remain in place as lockdown eases
President Cyril Ramaphosa says domestic and international travel remain prohibited as the country continues its efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.
This comes after data revealed that a large majority of infections is spread across four provinces.
The Western Cape, Gauteng, Free State and the Eastern Cape have been identified as the four biggest problem areas for the spread of the virus.
“We know, for example, that just one funeral in Port St Johns and one religious gathering in Mangaung contributed to a spate of infections in their respective provinces,” Ramaphosa said on Thursday.
“From the evidence we have, we know that 75 percent of confirmed coronavirus cases are found in just six metro municipalities – Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Cape Town, Buffalo City, eThekwini and Mangaung.”
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This is the highest one-day increase since the start of the outbreak in March. The total number of cases now sits at 3953. The Department of Health says while it is concerned at the steady increase in the number of positive cases, it is pleased with the intensified community screening and testing campaign.
Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Thursday evening on the government’s plans to ease regulations that have been put in place to curb the spread of Covid-19.
In his address to the nation, Ramaphosa said the move to restrict travel is vital to turn the situation around.
“Our borders will remain closed to international travel, except for the repatriation of South African nationals and foreign citizens.
“No travel will be allowed between provinces, except for the transportation of goods and exceptional circumstances such as funerals.”
The latest confirmed cases stand at 3953 and the death toll at 75.
President Cyril Ramaphosa details what level 4 will look like as govt begins to ease lockdown restrictions. As is stands, there is no #lockdownextension.
— Nokukhanya Mntambo (@khanya_mntambo) April 23, 2020
#LockdownSA pic.twitter.com/DAlUbxUC1I