Given the high level interest in the conference from South African participants, a sufficient number of pre-registered international participants, and encouraging trends in the pandemic dynamics, the LOC has optimistically decided to host ADASS 2021 in a hybrid format, with an in-person component.

In July, South Africa crested its third wave of infections (see Covid-19 SA dashboard). Assuming the dynamics of the first and second waves are any guide, we can optimistically expect October to be a relatively quiet period. The vaccination program is ramping up, and by 1 August the 35+ years cohort will be offered vaccines. 

South Africa has been open for international arrivals since the end of the first lockdown in 2020, and has remained open through the second and third waves, as tourism remains a vital part of the economy. As per government regulations, “All international travellers … must provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel.”, or self-isolate at own cost failing to produce a test. 

Should they be needed for your return trip, PCR tests are straightforward to procure in Cape Town, with multiple private testing sites and clinics. The LOC will provide information on these.

Up-to-date information on current travel regulations can be found on the SA government website.