Although many more South Africans may well have contracted Covid-19, absent any symptoms, than the official statistics suggest, we are not out of the woods. Indeed, the holiday season holds perils for the health system that may well only display themselves in early 2021. Yes, a vaccine may be on the way, but mass vaccinations are months, if not a year, away. Therefore, to avoid the worst, including tighter lockdowns, South Africans need to listen, rather than ignore, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize’s appeal that citizens stick to the protocols of regular hand-washing and physical distancing over the holidays. Where physical distancing is not possible, wear a mask.