"Actual cases are higher than expected for the last week although numbers are still relatively low. A very large increase in absolute numbers is expected for the coming weeks," said Cloete.
He added that the spike in cases was likely driven by the Omicron variant. The variant is circulating in the Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. The Western Cape has recorded 16 confirmed Omicron cases in the last two weeks. However, based on a proxy marker in PCR tests, the Omicron variant could be prevalent in as much as 80% of the new cases in the last week, Cloete said.
Based on increased cases in Gauteng, there is no evidence that the new variant causes more severe disease, added Cloete.. If you can't find the facts you're looking for, email us at the address mentioned in the article and we will verify the information with medical professionals.In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For only, you have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features.
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