South Africa Health Department has brought back compulsory mask wearing in public places just before the remaining restrictions were due to be lifted.

The regulations, which are in effect from Thursday, have emphasised the public will still be required to wear a face mask when entering and being inside an indoor public place including in schools.

The new regulations came at a time when South Africa has reported a new wave of covid 19 in the country, the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) warned in late April.

The plan for children to wear masks in school is part of the government’s plans to limit the spread of covid 19.

“Again, under these limited regulations, no person may use any form of public transport unless wearing a face mask,” the department announced in a statement on Wednesday evening.

For any indoor and outdoor gatherings, a maximum of 50% of a venue’s capacity may be occupied provided attendees are vaccinated against Covid-19 and produce a valid vaccination certificate.

“Alternatively, attendees must produce a valid negative Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours prior to the date of the gathering.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the end of the national state of disaster in April.