"We've gotten into the festive spirit early and are inviting friends and family over to get-togethers and this is what is spreading the virus. It is our failure to adhere to all these basic precautions at all times that has brought us to this second wave."

The president said it has been gatherings – especially social gatherings and parties – that are the largest source of outbreaks.

The daily average of new cases nationally over the last seven days is 74 percent higher than the previous seven days.

The number of new cases has increased from a daily average of around 3,800 to just over 6,600 a day.

Cabinet has therefore decided that further restrictions will be imposed from midnight on Monday.

The hours of the national curfew will be extended from 11pm to 4am.

Non-essential establishments, including restaurants and bars, will be required to close at 10pm.

The sale of alcohol from retail outlets will only be permitted between 10am and 6pm from Monday to Thursday.

eNCA