South Africa has hit the 90K Covid-19 death toll mark as the country braces for the 4th wave of the virus.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), 27 more fatalities have taken SA past the 90K Covid-19 death toll.

“As of today the cumulative number of Covid-19 cases identified in SA is 3 051 222 with 13 143 new cases reported. Today 27 deaths have been reported bringing the total to 90 002 deaths. The cumulative number of recoveries now stand at 2 864 648 with a recovery rate of 93,9%.”

Gauteng remains the province with the most recorded active cases at 8, 445 with over 1,600 people hospitalised with Covid-related symptoms.

Kwazulu-Natal also notes a spike in infections as the 4th wave and the new Omicron variant grips the country.

Speaking to eNCA Professor Adrian Puren from the NICD says the institute is monitoring vaccine efficacy in relation to the new variant.

He says that we’re still in the early stage of the new variant and more research needs to be done to determine if the vaccines will work against Omicron.

Currently, the NICD are looking into whether those who have been hospitalized are vaccinated or not.

Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa will be meeting with the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) to review the state of the pandemic.

Ramaphosa may consider a clamp-on travel during the festive season to curb the surge in infections over the holidays.