Death toll nears 6 million as pandemic enters 3rd year

The official global death toll from COVID-19 is fast approaching the six million mark. The death toll, compiled by Johns Hopkins University, stood at 5,996,882 as of Sunday morning and was expected to pass the 6 million mark later in the day.

It underscores that the coronavirus pandemic, now in its third year, is far from over. South Africa in particular has been hit hard, counting over 3.5 million infections and just over 99,500 deaths since the start of the outbreak.

The country has now administered over 31 million vaccine doses. It means nearly 50% of the adult population is fully vaccinated. Most restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus have been lifted.

But the wearing of masks remains mandatory and there are still restrictions on the number of people allowed to attend public gatherings.