South Africa recorded 158 more Covid-19-related deaths by Thursday evening, bringing the death toll to 18 309.

The fatalities have been reported in the following provinces: 22 in the Eastern Cape, 19 in the Free State, 38 in KwaZulu-Natal, 70 in Gauteng, five in Limpopo, and four in the Western Cape.

"We extend our condolences to the loved ones of the departed and thank the healthcare workers who treated the deceased patients," Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said in a statement.

The total number of tests conducted to date is 4 481 354 with 22 609 new tests conducted since the last report.

Recoveries are 628 301, which translates to a recovery rate of 90%.