Cape Argus E-dition

Experts sound alarm over gatherings

ZINTLE MAHLATI zintle.mahlati@inl.co.za

HEALTH experts have cautioned against large gatherings ahead of the local government elections as the country braces itself for a possible rise in Covid-19 infections.

The Covid-19 pandemic will put a limit on big political rallies that often accompany election season.

The presence of new Covid-19 variants, first identified in the UK and India, have raised concerns about a possible third wave of the pandemic.

South Africans head to the polls on October 27.

Wits Professor Shabir Madhi said mass gatherings would have an impact on the trajectory of the pandemic. He cautioned against the big-styled political events.

"Allowing for mass gatherings is what probably broke the camel's back in India. This is something we should have learnt months ago. This data that mass gatherings are responsible for 80% of infection has been available since October of last year," Madhi said.

"The IEC should not be allowing any gatherings indoors when it comes to campaigning. The president should actually make a stance that the ANC will not be engaging in any sorts of those mass gatherings," he said.

Dr Aslam Dasoo, from the Progressive Health Forum said that gatherings had proven to be a health concern. He said a sensible approach was needed by the government ahead of the elections.

"I think there needs to be a flexible and adaptable approach by the authorities and the president with respect to going ahead with the election while going through the surge.

"It is a very difficult situation and it needs a rational approach. All gatherings should be limited right now. That cannot be ignored by anyone," Dasoo said.

The IEC said it was up to political parties to ensure Covid-19 health protocols were adhered to at political gatherings.

Under level 1, gatherings are limited to 250 for indoor and 500 for outdoor events.

The commission said its Covid19 protocols had been tested during by-elections.

METRO

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2021-05-14T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-05-14T07:00:00.0000000Z

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