Premier Alan Winde confirms total of 289 188 cases of Coronavirus COVID-19 in Western Cape

As of 1pm on 13 May 2021, the Western Cape has 2560 active Covid-19 infections, with a total of 289 188 people having been infected with Covid-19 to date and 274 938 recoveries. A total of 84 092 vaccines received to date as part of the Sisonke trial have been administered by 5pm on 12 May 2021.

The Western Cape has recorded 5 additional deaths since our last daily update on Wednesday, 12 May, bringing the total number of Covid-19 related deaths in the province to 11 690. 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. To view the Dashboard, visit:  https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/covid-19-dashboard 

“Western Cape recording resurgence in cases – it is now urgent that residents 60 and older register for the vaccine”

During my weekly digital press conference today, I confirmed that the Western Cape is experiencing a resurgence in Covid-19 cases.

A resurgence is noted when the number of infections increase by 20% over a 7-day period.

The Western Cape has recorded 170 new diagnoses each day and there has been a 39% week on week increase. Our reproductive number is above one, which also is evidence of this growth.

In the Metro:

• Most sub-districts are showing an increase in cases, although the absolute numbers involved vary.
• With the public holiday 7 to 14 days ago, we are expecting to see an increase in cases week on week, as we are comparing a week of 5 full days of testing to a week of only 4 days. But the increases seen now are larger than expected.
• An increase in private sector cases in Northern, Eastern and Western is being noted.

In the rural communities:

• Cases numbers in rural are also starting to increase.
• Cape Winelands, Garden Route and West Coast in particular are seeing an increase in cases.

This resurgence is not yet a ‘Third Wave” but the first sign of a surge of cases that could be expected in coming weeks.

We still have an opportunity to slow this spread down and reduce the number of infections by taking the necessary safety precautions. The power is still in our hands.

We need to urgently:

• Avoid crowds
• Avoid confined spaces
• Avoid close contact
• Wear a mask
• Sanitize or wash our hands with soap and water often
• Get tested as soon as we start with symptoms, and ensure immediate quarantine
• Ensure ventilation in all venues, including on public transport
• Look out for those who are at high risk of severe Covid-19 illness and death

This resurgence is also an urgent reminder that we must get as many people over the age of 60 registered for their Covid-19 vaccine. 

To register, please visit www.westerncape.gov.za and click on the link.

You can also:

• Dial *134*832# and follow the prompts (FREE on all South African Networks)
• Whatsapp the word REGISTER to 0600 123456 

We have all been through so much already, and we are now so much closer to the mass vaccination programme in our province. We need one last push from you all, so that we flatten the curve, get closer to the vaccine roll-out, and save lives.

“Premier Winde takes his #LetsDoThis vaccination registration drive to Mitchells Plain”

Today, I took the #LetsDoThis vaccination registration drive to the Shoprite at Watergate Mall in Mitchells Plain. This vaccination drive is a part of a series of engagements and visits to encourage vaccine registrations among residents who are 60 years or older.  

During the visit, I engaged with shoppers on how to register. I also assisted on the tills designated for elderly persons, sharing leaflets on how to register. While there, I spoke with Mable from Phillip East who said, “I am glad I have more information about the vaccines. I’m looking forward to having my vaccine and I will be registering.”

I also had the opportunity to engage with Monica from Delft and helped her to register. Monica said, “When I first heard about the vaccine, I was very skeptical. I spoke my daughter about it, and she encouraged me to go get registered for my vaccine. I am very glad that I am now registered, and I don’t have to worry about it anymore.”

I want to remind residents that vaccines are rigorously tested internationally and locally and are proven to be safe and effective. If you are 60 or older, register to be vaccinated by following this quick and easy process:

1. Visit www.westerncape.gov.za and click on the EVDS link to register
2. Capture your basic details, including your ID or passport number
3. Provide a cellphone number, where confirmation of your registration and future booking details will be SMSed
4. Indicate where and when you would like to be vaccinated
5. Enter your medical aid details if you have one – it doesn’t matter if you don’t.
6. Check that all your details are correct, and press submit. The system will send you an SMS to verify your registration on the system. When it is your turn, you will receive a second SMS with your appointment time and place. You will need to show this at vaccination sites, with your identification document.
7. Should you receive a 2-dose vaccine, such as the Pfizer vaccine, you will be given a follow-up appointment date.

You can also:

• Dial *134*832# and follow the prompts (FREE on all South African Networks)
• Whatsapp the word REGISTER to 0600 123456