Fake news: Health dept sets record straight

COVID-19 remains circulating at relatively low levels around the country, just like in some parts of the world.

But there's no need for the public to panic because many people have developed some level of immunity from both the vaccines and infections.

The national Department of Health confirmed this amid reports of an alleged new Covid-19 variant.

According to the department, this is old and fake news about the Covid-19 Omicron XBB variant that has been circulating on social media; some of the 'fake' posts advise people to wear face masks because of an allegedly "deadly and not easy-to-detect variant."

The department refuted these claims, stating that they were causing unnecessary panic and confusion.

"This is a misleading message which first resurfaced during the peak of the pandemic without a traceable source.

"We urge members of the public to be vigilant and ignore this malicious social media content whose intent is to cause unnecessary panic and confusion, especially as the country is entering influenza season," the department said. 

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According to the department the current strain or variant in circulation is less severe and less transmissible, but taking protective measures daily is important.

This includes exercising non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand hygiene to help prevent the spread of other respiratory infections, including influenza.

Flu season looming

As the winter period approaches in Mzansi, the department has observed that this time is considered a peak season for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which can sometimes be mistaken for Covid-19 due to similar symptoms.

"The flu season is expected to start in the next few weeks and the department is advising those at high risk of contracting the virus to get the flu vaccine to prevent severe health complications.

"Groups at high risk include the elderly who are over 65 years old, those with underlying illnesses such as heart and lung disease, people living with HIV and tuberculosis, as well as pregnant people," the department said.