Economist Podcasts Third time’s the harm: Africa’s crippling covid-19 wave
Jun 28, 2021
John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, discusses Africa's alarming COVID-19 resurgence, particularly in South Africa, where cases are surging to nearly 15,000 daily. He highlights overwhelming healthcare strains and the urgent need for vaccinations. Tamara Gilkes-Bohr delves into America’s reading crisis, examining the effectiveness of phonics over whole language strategies. The conversation also touches on how smartphones are reshaping the film industry, enabling a new generation of filmmakers to thrive independently.
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Africa's Third COVID Wave
- Africa faces a severe third COVID-19 wave, worsened by public fatigue and new variants.
- Low vaccination rates and supply issues threaten to make the virus endemic on the continent.
Dire Situation in South Africa
- Hospitals in Johannesburg are overflowing, with ambulances struggling to find available beds.
- Doctors face difficult choices about who receives intensive care.
Government Responses
- African governments, initially successful, now struggle with the third wave, hesitant to reimpose restrictions.
- South Africa's delayed response and unprepared health system exacerbate the crisis.