CORONA VIRUS DECLARED A NATIONAL DISASTER

They has been a lot of news about the covid 19 virus which is widely known as the corona virus. Mostly the news have caused panic and anxiety. KAE News is committed to playing our role in keeping you informed and sharing the best and accurate information.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Coronavirus disease is an infectious disease caused by a new virus that had not been previously identified in humans. The virus causes respiratory illness with symptoms such as a cough, fever, and in more severe cases pneumonia.

Globally, 174 923 people have been Infected ; 77 867 Recovered and 6 687 Deaths. The virus is spread by coming into close contact with someone infected with COVID-19 through contaminated droplets spread by coughing or sneezing, or by contact with contaminated hands, surfaces or objects. The time between when a person is exposed to the virus and when symptoms first appear is typically 5 to 6 days, although it may range from 2 to 14 days.

Yesterday, the 15th of March 2020, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa finally addressed the nation about the Covoid 19 pandemic that has shaken the globe. Ramaphosa took the nation into confidence 11 days after the virus formally entered South Africa on 5 March 2020. As of today, they have been 62 confirmed cases. In total, they have been 2 405 cases tests conducted and 2 343 of these returned negative. Fortunately, no deaths related to covid-19 have been reported in South Africa thus far.

In his national address, Ramaphosa highlighted the government’s plan to reduce further contamination:
? Schools to be closed from Wednesday 18 March 2020 to end of Easter Weekend (18 April 2020)
? Gatherings of more than 100 people people prohibited.
? Travel ban for visitors from Italy, Iran, China, South Korea, Spain, Germany, US and UK.
? Enhanced testing of South African citizens returning from high risk countries.
? 35 land ports and 2 sea ports shut down.
?No prison visits for 30 days.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES
?Wash your hands regularly with soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
?Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
?Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
?Cover your cough or sneeze with a flexed elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the bin.
?Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Social distancing is also encouraged which refers to limiting public gatherings as much as possible. Most public events have already been cancelled due to the pandemic.

You can stay informed by adding the Whatsapp support for South Africans by texting “Hi” to 0600 123 456. If you display covid 19 symptoms call 0800029999 and someone will come to you to have you tested for the virus.