This as critical beds capacity is currently at 110%. The Head of health, Dr Keith Cloete says with alcohol available during the week, there’s a possibility of trauma cases at the weekend, especially month-end. During Alert Level 4, there was a 30% reduction in trauma cases at hospitals, as well as a 37%-reduction in weekend peaks, when the pressure is the highest. On the vaccination front, Cloete added that more sites could soon be opened if needed.

Meanwhile, the co-lead investigator at the Sisonke Covid-19 vaccine trial, professor Linda-Gail Bekker has again assured South Africans of the efficacy of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine saying global studies have again proved that the vaccine works. Bekker says studies show it significantly reduces the patient’s chances of developing severe forms of covid-19. Bekker says the vaccine was also, globally, 100% effective against hospitalization and death.