World Health Organization (WHO)
The highly contagious Delta variant of the Covid-19 virus was detected in two regions of the Eastern Cape.
This was confirmed by the Health MEC Nomkosazana Meth who urged residents to adhere to lockdown restrictions.
"The delta variant has been found in two of our regions which is very concerning as this variant spreads faster and is more infectious,"she said.
The MEC said the Department was concerned with the surge in cases in Nelson Mandela Bay, which is once again a COVID-19 hotspot.
The surge in cases points to a third wave of the virus which has been declared in many parts of the country.
Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape Health Department says it is ramping up its Covid19 vaccination programme.
A spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo, says 744 new sites will open on Monday next week.
He says the vaccination programme for teachers has been boosted by the arrival of 31 200 doses, meaning that more teachers will be inoculated.
