By Kaya 959 Reporter
At least seven provinces have shown a sustained increase in new COVID-19 infections, heralding the fourth wave.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases says the proportion of positive tests in Gauteng has risen dramatically in the last two weeks.
“SA is entering into the fourth wave with seven provinces; Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Western Cape having sustained increases in COVID-19 cases.
“Taking measures to reduce the spread of infection, including getting a COVID-19 vaccine, is the best way to slow the spread of infection,” the NICD says.
On Wednesday, 8 561 more people tested positive. This is an increase of 4 188 new cases compared to Tuesday.
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Between Monday and Wednesday, SA recorded more than 15 000 new infections.
“The majority of new cases today are from Gauteng (72%), followed by Western Cape (7%). KwaZulu-Natal accounted for 6%. Mpumalanga and North West each accounted for 4% respectively. Limpopo 3%, Free State 2% and Eastern Cape 1%. Northern Cape accounted for less than 1% of Wednesday’s new cases,” the NICD says.
There has been an increase of 135 hospital admissions in the past 24 hours and to date, 19 529 031 tests have been conducted in both public and private sectors.
SA’s COVID-19 death toll now stands at 89 871 with 28 more deaths recorded on Wednesday.
Symptoms to look out for:
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Cough
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Sore throat
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Shortness of breath
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Loss of smell or taste
“Even with no symptoms, you can spread the virus. Protect others from getting sick and be part of helping to prevent coronavirus transmission,” the NICD urges.



