Article by Lindiwe Karosa
Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has commended President Cyril Ramaphosa’s response to Covid-19 in South Africa. The country sits on the highest number of confirmed positive cases on the continent.
Ghebreyesus praised the proactive efforts the country has made like the massive door-to-door campaign to curb the spread of the virus. The Director-General has also appealed to South African citizens to adhere to government’s regulations.
South Africa is 12 days into its nationwide lockdown. Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhizi has deployed 10 000 health workers who will provide a door-to-door screening and testing service in especially dense communities. This move has been received well as it will counter the risk of rapid spread if someone is unknowingly infected with the virus. People who test positive and are unable to quarantine at their homes will be moved to a government facility.
The Department of Health continues to prepare for an anticipated increase of positive cases. It is in talks with multiple manufacturers to request for more ventilators to be built and has also welcomed the many donations received from citizens, the private sector and philanthropists to assist in the fight against Covid-19.
South Africans are encouraged to stay at home and only leave their homes for essential goods and services. The country currently has 1 749 confirmed positive cases and 13 deaths.
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