The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber says it is deeply concerned about the steady rise in new Covid-19 cases in the Metro.
Acting CEO, Prince Matonsi says they appeal to residents and visitors, including businesses, to exercise extra caution as the increase in new infections is expected to intensify with the imminent onset of the third wave.
He says with the new variant reportedly easily transmitted, it has the potential to infect a large number of people, place a greater strain on the city's already overburdened public health system and lead to a greater loss of lives.
Matonsi says the Metro has recorded 70 new cases on Saturday and currently has 399 active cases.
He says they appeal to businesses to ensure that they continue to enforce the required measures to protect the health and safety of employees and customers.
"Our local economy is still reeling from the last lockdown, which has impacted the sustainability of businesses, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Also, very concerning is the impact this has had in terms of business closures and unemployment rates", Matonsi said.
