Covid-19 in the Northern Cape

The Northern Cape’s scanning and testing campaign, as part of the implementation of prevention measures against the spread of Covid-19, is progressing well, says Mase Manopole, MEC of the Northern Cape’s Department of Health.

The Northern Cape has already scanned more than 388 076 people for possible symptoms. Screening tests take place at roadblocks and testing stations at health facilities.

The criteria for screening and testing, as outlined by the World Health Organization, include chronic respiratory problems and symptoms such as a chronic cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or fever. The criteria also include persons who may have been in contact with someone who tested postive for Covid-19.

Up to date, more than 895 swab samples have been sent to the National Health Laboratory Service for testing, of which 16 patients’ test results came back positive.

Manopole says none of these 16 patients were hospitalized and up to date no deaths were reported.

Six of these patients recovered from the virus and this number is expected to rise soon as these patients will soon reach the end of their isolation period.

Northern Cape corona cases by district

The John Taolo Gaetsewe district currently has zero positive corona cases.

The Namaqua district has reported three cases.

The Pixley ka Seme district and ZF Mgcawu district each has one positive case.

Eleven of the province’s corona cases have been reported in the Frances Baard district.

The provincial health department says they have recently received 100 000 additional test kits and will continue screening and testing those who meet the WHO’s criteria of symptoms and signs.

The Northern Cape will soon have a total of 1 360 hospital beds available to accommodate Covid-19 patients.

Manopole is calling on all residents to prevent the spread of the virus by wearing fabric masks as prescribed by the government.