Co-operation vital in search for virus cure

THE GLOBAL Covid-19 pandemic has claimed more than 20 000 lives in South Africa as fear and uncertainty continue to prevail despite hope that a vaccine to counter the virus could soon be available.

Concerns over a second wave of the virus are warranted, especially in the Eastern Cape which recorded more than half of the country’s Covid-19 cases in a 24-hour period at the weekend.

While not unexpected, the resurgence of the virus is dependent on human behaviour, and personal responsibility remains crucial in order to reduce the number of infections and deaths.

It is highly unlikely that the Cabinet or President Cyril Ramaphosa will reintroduce a hard lockdown as the state has to balance the economic conditions with the threat the virus poses to the country.

However, hot spots are being monitored and there is the possibility that areas will be locked down depending on the infection rate and concerns over the virus spreading to large parts of the country.

Health Minister Zweli Mkhize warned on Friday that the rising numbers in the Eastern Cape were not being taken lightly.

“But, right now, the Eastern Cape is different in that it was much lower, the numbers are beginning to creep up and that’s why we are sending the message that we are now getting into troublesome waters.”

The importance of global vaccine co-operation is crucial in fighting the pandemic.

China and Russia have said they will co-operate with other countries in the research and development, production and distribution of vaccines.

This as concerns grow that developing countries will be left behind when the global roll-out of the vaccine takes place.

In an era of globalisation, controlling the spread of Covid-19 can only be achieved by countries working together.

No pressure, no diamonds. THOMAS CARLYLE British historian