South Africa recorded 9 446 new cases on Sunday, pushing the total number of cases to 921 922.
According to the latest data, there are 793 914 patients who recovered COVID-19, while the death toll is 24 691 since the outbreak.
“We convey our condolences to the loved ones of the departed and thank the health workers who treated the deceased,” said Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize.
The information is based on the 6 140 839 tests conducted to date, with 40 466 conducted since the last report.
While the country is still grappling with the second wave, the Minister announced on Friday that a group of scientists discovered a new Coronavirus variant called 501.V2, which is spreading rapidly in the country.
According to Mkhize, this variant is seeing a larger proportion of younger patients with no comorbidities develop serious illness.
“The evidence that has been collated, therefore, strongly suggests that the current second wave we are experiencing is being driven by this new variant.”
Meanwhile, scientists in the United Kingdom have also warned about this new variant of the virus, prompting the UK to introduce tighter restrictions during the festive season.
According to reports, countries like Canada, South America, Argentina, Chile and Colombia have all suspended direct flights to and from the United Kingdom.
Globally, there are 75 110 651 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 1 680 395 deaths reported to the World Health Organisation.
