POLITICS

889 Covid-19 patients hospitalised in WCape – Alan Winde

Premier says that as of Friday, 19 March, a total of 30 992 vaccines had been administered

Update on the coronavirus and vaccine rollout by Premier Alan Winde

23 March 2021

As of 1pm on 23 March, the Western Cape has 2222 active Covid-19 infections with a total of 278 771 confirmed Covid-19 cases and 265 109 recoveries. A total of 30 992 out of the 44 040 vaccines received to date as part of the Sisonke trial, have been administered.

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases

278 771

Total recoveries

265 109

Vaccines administered 

30 992

Total deaths

11 426

Total active cases (currently infected patients)

2222

Tests conducted

1408294

Hospitalisations

889 with 181 in ICU or highcare

The Western Cape has recorded 4 additional deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in the province to 11 426. We send our condolences to their loved ones at this time.

Additional data is available on the Western Cape Covid-19 data dashboard which also features active cases per sub-district, active cases per 100 000 and 7-day moving averages. Access the data dashboard here: https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/covid-19-dashboard

Vaccines update:

Yesterday, the Western Cape received another 12 760 vaccines as part of its third tranche allocation of 18 080 vaccines. This brings the total number of vaccines received to date in the Sisonke implementation study to 44 040.

As at Friday, 19 March, a total of 30 992 vaccines had been administered. Vaccinations did not take place over the long weekend, as the province was awaiting delivery of its latest allocation of vaccines. 

Vaccination of healthcare workers re-commenced at all sites today. An additional site at Caledon Hospital has now also come online to expand the number of rural vaccination sites.

The Sisonke vaccines are being administered in four tranches over an eight-week period, with new batches of vaccines arriving weekly.

While vaccinations are an important part of our response to Covid-19, until we have widespread coverage, the most effective tool we have to prevent infection is our own behaviour.

This is especially important over the next few weeks, as many people observe religious holidays and schools break up in April. Should you be planning gatherings during this time, protect yourself and your loved ones by ensuring that these are held outside or in well-ventilated spaces, and that you avoid close contact and crowding. Always wear your mask and practice good hygiene by washing your hands and keeping surfaces clean. Businesses can play their part by ensuring that they adhere to Covid-19 protocols around the maximum numbers of people allowed in venues, mask wearing and hygiene.

Issued by the Office of the Western Cape Premier, 23 March 2021