The increase in new cases is the highest since the end of January. At the same time, 101 new deaths were also confirmed. The death toll now stands at 56 077. There are currently more than 42 000 active cases in South Africa.

Meanwhile, Mkize says if the current trajectory of new cases continues, the whole of the country will soon find itself in the middle of a third wave. He issued the warning yesterday when he tabled his department’s budget of R62.5 billion. Mkhize has expressed concern that some provinces have already declared a third wave, with infection rates rising in various provinces, such as Gauteng, the Northern Cape and Free State as well as North West. The department is also keeping a close eye on the positivity rate which on Tuesday was more than 10% and by yesterday, 11%. This rate is also of great concern.