Dear Scouting members,
As we are all aware, the government has confirmed that the 3rd Covid-19 wave has arrived, and President Ramaphosa has brought us as a nation back to an adjusted Level 2 lockdown. In light of this we want to confirm that the current SCOUTS SA Covid-19 regulations remain in effect and have not been amended as we are still within government legislature.
Also, recent reports from the Department of Health discourage the usage of non-contact thermometers (NCT). The accuracy of the instruments has been deemed questionable for various reasons and fever is being removed as a symptomatic requirement. With increasing evidence, the COVID case definition has now changed to include non-respiratory symptoms and removing fever as a requirement – since it is an unreliable symptomatic indicator of COVID-19.
Therefore, SSA no longer requires members to take temperature readings with non-contact thermometers (NCT). However, it is still required to asking the health questions as per the SSA COVID-19 policy and to record the responses for event participants. Anybody who answers yes to one or more of the questions will be required to return home immediately and seek medical attention.
In summary, the following rules apply:
- Mask wearing is required by all (Scouters, young people, parents, etc.) at all times.
- Ensure regular hand and equipment sanitisation. Please note that no contact sport and sharing of equipment is permitted.
- Ensure social distancing is observed.
- Ensure verbal screening for symptoms are conducted and recorded.
- Ensure the implementation of SSA’s current COVID regulations and property protocols. See updated SSA Safety Plan for members 2021_Level 2_1 June 2021
- Please be reminded that campfires remain forbidden under the current regulations.
Lastly, let’s not forget to help our family and community members register for the Covid-19 vaccine.
With the current vaccine roll out progressing slowly, we have called upon our senior Scouts, Rovers, Adult Leaders and Scouting parents to step up and help register someone you care about, or somebody you know, who is 60 years old or older. This person might be your mom or dad, grandmother or grandfather, or aunt or uncle. They could also be a close family friend, your next-door neighbour, or even a person you know at work or in the community. The process is quick and easy, but it can be cumbersome for those who don’t have the access or experience with online registrations. Please give some of your time to assist with Covid-19 vaccination registrations as it can aid in the prevention of serious illness or death of a beloved family or community member. The hours you invest in helping others may be recorded for advancement purposes. If you do not have online access but want to assist, you could provide a plate of food to the essential workers at the vaccination stations.
As we brace ourselves for the 3rd wave, I ask you all to remain vigilant and to not let complacency creep in. It is of utmost importance that you take the necessary precautions as laid out above to protect yourselves, your families and our young people as we continue our Scouting activities together.
Yours in Scouting,
Brendon Hausberger
Chief Scout