Article by Lindiwe Karosa
The Department of Health has released a statement this evening announcing an increase of 145 new confirmed positive Covid-19 cases. This brings South Africa’s total number of cases to 2173.
The purpose of the extended lockdown is to allow the government time to expand its testing measures and further implement the door-to-door testing across the country.
The Department has thus far conducted over 80 085 tests. There is a noted increase in the number of tests conducted at public laboratories as the facilities have done 64% of the 5032 tests conducted today.
Gauteng continues to lead, sitting on 865 cases, followed by Western Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal with 587 and 443 cases respectively. The death toll remains at 25.
The government has also encouraged citizens to resort to using cloth masks citing convenience and their ability to be reused as reasons to switch. This suggestion is also to alleviate the pressure on the state to provide personal protective gear to both healthcare workers and citizens. Minister Mkhize has recommended that medical masks be reserved for healthcare workers.
Screenings are continuing nationwide.
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