Fig. 3

COVID-19 outbreak curve and timeline of implementation of major interventions in South Africa. Note: ① On March 15, 2020, suspended visa issuance to visitors from high-risk countries; Closed 35 land ports and 2 waterways; Strengthened airport monitoring measures. ② At midnight on March 26, South Africa began a 21-day "lockdown", and the lockdown level was set as Level 5, the strictest. ③ From April 23, gradually relaxed the level of lockdown order and allowed enterprises to resume work. ④ On July 13, a curfew was imposed from 14 to 4, alcohol bans were reintroduced and masks were required. ⑤ On July 17, 5,571 isolation sites were set up across the country. ⑥ On Oct 1, all bans on COVID-19 were fully lifted, borders were reopened and international travel resumed. ⑦ On Dec 18, the “lockdown” was upgraded from Level 1 to Level 3, and curfews, masks and alcohol bans were reinstated. ⑧ On Feb 28, 2021, upgraded the lockdown to Level 1, shortened curfews, permitted the sale of alcohol, and certain gatherings were allowed with conditions. ⑨ On April 16, electronic registration for the COVID-19 vaccine was opened to all