Covid-19 in SA | Public warned to remain cautious, vigilant

CAPE TOWN - Remain cautious and vigilant.

That's the advice from health professionals and scientists after the country identified its first case of a coronavirus infection caused by the new, highly transmissible XBB.1.5 variant. 

READ: Severity of new COVID-19 variant unknown

The variant was discovered in gene sequencing carried out by researchers at Stellenbosch University.

It's been dubbed the most transmissible sub-variant detected in the pandemic so far.

READ: Health department meeting with scientists over new COVID-19 variant

The National Health Department has been alerted and is in discussions with scientists to gather more information.

The department says it's appealing to South Africans to vaccinate, get their boosters, and observe non-pharmaceutical interventions.

* eNCA's Silindelo Masikane reports.

In the meantime @HealthZA is appealing to everyone to #vaccinate, get boosters, wear your masks, keep the distance, avoid overcrowded places and wash your hands #COVID19

— Department of Health (@HealthZA) January 7, 2023