Overberg COVID-19 update – 4 December

Over the past 7 days the Overberg has seen a 64% increase in new COVID-19 cases and 6 deaths. We urge the residents to remain cautious and vigilant.

The Overberg has seen an increase in all Sub-districts. Towns in the Overberg which are of concern are Swellendam, Cape Agulhas, Villiersdorp, Caledon, Bergsig and Grabouw and continue to drive the districts active cases.

As we have seen during the first wave of infections, once community transmission is established within communities, especially in the Metro, the situation can quickly deteriorate if not brought under control soon.

“We have seen an immense rise in active cases, and it is concerning, now is the time to assess our behaviour and our adherence to the five golden rules. If we remain vigilant and follow the guidelines, we could still enjoy our festive season but this onus is on each one of us” say Wilma Kamfer, Overberg District Director for the Department of Health.

A closer look at the Overberg subdistrict shows the areas where we have seen a significant increase in new cases over the past seven days:

New cases per subdistrict in the Overberg:

Reports from our local surveillance team indicate that attendance at a funeral, going to shopping centres and non-adherence to quarantine and isolation has led to quite a few cases testing positive. We call on the citizens of each of these subdistricts and as a collective to do their part so we can bring the situation under control again. We all have a role to play through our own actions.

As we enter summer and traditional holiday season, there is a need to socialise and see other people. Ensure you connect safely with other people and stay as safe as possible when leaving your house by avoiding possible super-spreader events.

When going out, always wear your mask and avoid crowded places, close-contact settings, and confined enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.

Do not become complacent. Even when you feel safe between friends and family, you should continue to wear your mask and maintain a distance of at least 1,5 m from other people.

We need to remain vigilant and encourage each other to continue to practice good social behaviour.