The president, Cyril Ramaphosa, has taken steps to prevent "a high-proportion catastrophe" in the country. These measures include the cancellation of several international flights and the closure of all unnecessary workplaces, among others.
Last week the national disaster was declared and schools were closed and an appeal was made for "social distancing". These measures are not enough to curb the expansion of the country, which will completely close the country from 26 March.
Although the majority of the population of South Africa is young, many are in risk groups for HIV-related diseases or malnutrition. In addition, The Guardian has published that the public health system has a great scarcity of resources. Thus, Ramaphosa has announced its intention to increase the medical tests and economic measures that are put in place to protect banks, businesses and jobs.
The decision to close the country has taken place after coronavirus cases have increased considerably; in less than a week the number of jumps has risen from 61 to 400. “The amount will continue to grow. It is clear that we have to give it an urgent and dramatic response,” said the president, who predicted that in a few weeks there will be thousands of infections.