The Free State province has recorded 71 237 confirmed cases of Covid-19, 2 493 deaths and 59 268 recoveries since Tuesday, 19 January.

According to Free State Health MEC Montseng Tsiu the province has seen some of the highest numbers of infections, admissions to hospital, and deaths recorded in the districts.

"The virus has, in the recent past, been spreading at alarming rates in all our district municipalities," said Tsui.

She said younger people were being infected due to entertainment habits, despite the lockdown regulations in place.

"Adults, sadly, should also shoulder the blame as younger people mimic the behaviour of the older generation, which has burdened the health system," added Tsui.

The Lejweleputswa and Mangaung districts had seen higher than average rates of new infections, however, the situation seemed to be changing because there were no clear hotspots, as the cases were spread across local areas and townships.

"We have contained the situation, but the war is far from over," she said.

Mangaung metro had the highest infection rate in the province, with Bloemfontein being the most affected area.

While the province had recorded 2 493 deaths, Tsui said they had not received reports on shortages of coffins and land availability for burials due to a spike in deaths.

A total of 4 027 healthcare workers, (private and public) tested positive for Covid-19, while 50 from the public sector died and three from the private sector died.

"Health workers as frontline staff were severely affected by the virus and unfortunately others succumbed."

"Despite fatigue and risk that they are exposed to, they continue to serve our communities with dedication and distinction," the MEC added.