South Africa Facing COVID Surge

South Africa is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 infections.  Health officials reported 15,000 new cases Sunday and 122 deaths. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa said Sunday night the Delta variant of the coronavirus is the likely culprit behind the outbreak.    New restrictions due to the explosion of cases include a ban on all public gatherings except funerals, which will be limited to 50 people.  Liquor sales will also be prohibited and an extended nightly curfew will go into effect.   Gauteng province had 66% of the new infections, officials said.   Authorities fear the other provinces with soon experience the uptick in cases.