BREAKING NEWS: We confirm that through collaborative efforts with private laboratories and the NGS-SA members, a new COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.529, has been detected in South Africa. Read more here nicd.ac.za/new-covid-19-v…

Prof Tulio de Oliveira is giving an insightful overview of the #NewVariant #B11529

Wondering how this #NewVariant was discovered? Here it is. #B11529

Prof Tulio de Oliveira explains that the #NewVariant has in excess of 30 mutations in spike protein, which makes it very different to the existing circulating variants. #B11529

"Developments around the #NewVariant are occurring at a rapid pace and the public has our assurance that we will keep them up to date," Prof Puren affirms. #B11529

Dr Lessells adds that the data suggest a sustained increase in #COVID19 incidence across Gauteng, which is possibly fueled by cluster outbreaks. Work needs to be done to understand the significance of the #NewVariant. Vaccines remain critical. #B11529

Minister Phaahla confirms that the #NewVariant has also been detected in Botswana and in Hong Kong. #B11529

The Minister confirms that due to the newness of the variant, restrictions will remain unchanged for the time being until more is known. #B11529 #NewVariant

Minister Phaahla stresses the importance of vaccination, as the more individuals who are vaccinated, the less opportunities there are for #COVID19 variants to emerge. #NewVariant #B11529

"The importance of non-pharmaceutical interventions remains unchanged and the public are urged to be responsible," says Prof Michelle Groome, Head of the Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response NICD

Prof Michelle Groome adds that individuals should get vaccinated, wear masks, practice healthy hand hygiene, maintain social distancing, and gather in well ventilated spaces. This can help limit the spread! #NewVariant #B11529

#COVID19 UPDATE: A total of 38,075 tests were conducted in the last 24hrs, with 2,465 new cases, which represents a 6.5% positivity rate. A further 114 #COVID19 related deaths have been reported, bringing total fatalities to 89,771 to date. See more here: ow.ly/3lEi30s1TGT

STATEMENT ON COVID-19 DEVELOPMENTS Government urges South Africans to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and play their part in protecting themselves and the broader community by having themselves vaccinated, while scientists investigate a newly identified coronavirus variant.

#COVID19 UPDATE: A total of 34,880 tests were conducted in the last 24hrs, with 3,220 new cases, which represents a 9.2% positivity rate. A further 8 #COVID19 related deaths have been reported, bringing total fatalities to 89,791 to date. See more here: ow.ly/NkXE30s26rw

The severity of #Omicron is yet to be determined but cases are increasing. Because of this, reconsider attending events that may become super spreader events, such as indoor gatherings in poorly ventilated spaces or large gatherings. Read more here nicd.ac.za/limit-the-risk…

#COVID19 UPDATE: A total of 51,402 tests were conducted in the last 24hrs, with 11,535 new cases, which represents a 22.4% positivity rate. A further 44 #COVID19 related deaths have been reported, bringing total fatalities to 89,915 to date. See more here: nicd.ac.za/latest-confirm…

Happy birthday to theskiesarealwaysbluerontheotherside. Hope u had a Gr8 one. Wishing u all the best and enjoy what's left of the day. Health, wealth and happiness on your special day.

Many serious infections like #polio, #measles, #cholera and #hepatitisB can be prevented by immunization. While vaccines may cause some minor side effects, such as a temporarily sore arm or low fever, they are generally safe and effective. #InfectiousDiseases #StaySafe

#COVID19 UPDATE: 23,347 tests were conducted in the last 24hrs, with 2,226 new cases, representing an 9.5% positivity rate. Today, National Department of Health reports 117 deaths, of which 15 occurred in the past 24-48 hours. Total fatalities are 95,022 to date. More here: ow.ly/XRPS30s91ZF

IND vs AUS Preview | #CWC2023 Final | 360 LIVE Q&A x.com/i/broadcasts/1…