As at today, the 18th of April 2020, a total of 3 034 people have been confirmed positive with COVID-19 in South Africa. This is an increase of 251 from previously reported cases which is way higher than the daily average of new cases expected for the National Lockdown to be relaxed.
Sadly, 2 more people have passed away due to the deadly virus. The two deceased are from the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. The National Death Toll is now 52 with KwaZulu-Natal being the province with the highest number of COVID-19 related deaths at 21.
On funerals, the Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize said that “we have observed that people who are attending funerals (even with the limited number of 50) are at risk of contracting COVID19”
“Unfortunately, we have observed that people hug and hold each other at funerals (as part of giving comfort) they cry and cough next to each other, pass a spade to each other to pour sand, they wash hands in one basin and have a buffet meal where they use the same spoon to dish up.”
Mkhize advised that if you do not have to attend a funeral, do not attend. When you do practice maximum hygiene, social distance and wear a cloth mask. The reality is that there could be one person at the funeral who has coronavirus and may not know.
The government is pleased that tests have increased significantly. As at today, 108 021 tests have been conducted. The increase is due to the proactive approach of provinces to actively test and screen members of the community.
However, some citizens have rejected health workers when approached at home or in public spaces. The Minister said that testing for COVID-19 is for one’s own good and also for those you love and protect.
The community is urged to continue social distancing, wash hands frequently and wear a cloth mask.
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