Western Cape records an increase of 13.6% COVID Cases over the last 7 days

Dear Cape Town

Today, on behalf of the Democratic Alliance, I moved a motion without notice in the provincial parliament regarding the increase of Covid-19 infections in the Western Cape and South Africa as a whole.

There are three key facts concerning the situation:

1. The Western Cape recorded an increase of 13.6% over the last 7 days. On this, I echo the sentiments of Premier Winde that an increase of 13% is 13 percentage points too high, we cannot afford a second wave and I call on our residents to stay vigilant in the fight against the virus.
2. According to the national Department of Health, a “resurgence” is constituted by an increase of 20%, by which we cannot confirm a resurgence of infections here in the Western Cape. I will however write to the National Minister of Health to enquire as to how his department determined the increase in infections in the province that differs from provincial statistics.
3. The Western Cape Government provides daily updates on the most recent statistics of Covid-19 in the province. The accuracy of data enables a better response along with keeping residents informed. In the motion I welcomed the provincial government’s ongoing, data-led strategy to manage the increase in bushfire scenarios.

As Chairperson on the Standing Committee of Health at the provincial parliament, we will continue with rigorous oversight on these matters to ensure that our response in the province remains beyond reproach.

Though the Western Cape’s recovery rate of 90% remained high at the peak, the only way we can all stay safe is avoid to crowed spaces, wear our masks, maintain physical distancing, and wash our hands regularly.

The DA encourages all individuals and organisations towards responsible behaviour as we continue the fight against Covid-19.

Regards

Wendy Philander, MPP
DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Health