State of disaster ends

OUR days of wearing masks outdoors are numbered now that President Cyril Ramaphosa has ended the national state of disaster. The president made the decision because Covid-19 deaths have dropped sharply compared to this time last year. Some of the rules to limit the spread of the coronavirus will no longer apply, while others will stay in place for 30 days to help us move out of the state of disaster.

What’s the reaction? Though many have welcomed the decision, economists say it won’t make much difference to SA’s economy because lockdown regulations have already done damage.

People in the tourism industry are also unhappy because there’s still a 50% limit on attendance of big events. This means many international events such as conventions can’t be held in the country. Unvaccinated foreign visitors, including children aged five to 12, must still have a Covid test before travelling, which may also negatively affect tourism.

How does it affect us? There are no more levels of lockdown. It’s no longer illegal to break lockdown regulations.

People who have Covid-19 no longer have to isolate.

People must still wear a mask indoors – for example in shops, restaurants, taxis and buses – but are no longer required to wear one outdoors.

Venues for large gatherings such as concerts or sports matches may only be filled to 50% of their capacity.

All attendees must provide proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of the event.

New regulations to curb the spread of Covid-19 will now be finalised but will probably be less strict than those that applied during the state of disaster.