By: Natasha Archary
The halt in the AstraZeneca virus rollout in South Africa has meant the country is added to the list of banned entries to many international destinations.
This after the United States, Dubai, Amsterdam and Ireland suspends travel from South Africa due to the high risk of COVID-19 exposure.
With concern mounting over the variant of the virus that was first discovered by South African scientists (501.V2), most countries are putting measures in place to restrict the spread further.
Restrictions in place
US President Joe Biden banned travel from the UK, various countries in South America as well as the Netherlands.
The Dutch and UAE have stopped flights to and from South Africa. With Dubai placing further restrictions on its residents returning from South Africa.
Under the restrictions, there will be no entry within 10 days of departing South Africa. This includes connecting flights to other countries from South Africa. Travelers with valid Dubai residence visas need government approval before leaving South Africa.
High Risk
International travel remains risky and with the UK banned from many countries, it’s only a matter of time before South Africa is banned too.
501.V2 spreads at a faster rate and is 50% more infectious. There has however been no evidence to support that it’s more severe or deadlier.
Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize is expected to brief the nation this morning to address issues surrounding the country’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
Also read: South Africa seeks new solution to Astrazeneca
Feature image: skitterphoto.com/



