The City of Ekurhuleni has activated an outbreak team, which mainly consists of healthcare workers, in case the coronavirus spreads to the metro.
The City is also part of the Joint Operation Centre, consisting of officials from all spheres of government, which will deal with an outbreak should it occur.
The City assures its communities there is no need to panic as there is no confirmed case of coronavirus in the region. “We appeal for calmness as there is no need for panic at this stage,” said City spokesperson Themba Gadebe on Friday.
“In our efforts to deal with any cases of coronavirus in our space, the City has established and activated this outbreak team.”
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Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms: What are they and how should you protect yourself?
There are no specific measures currently recommended to prevent Covid-19. However, the following can provide protection against infection with the coronavirus and many other viruses that are more common in South Africa:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands;
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
- Stay home when you are sick and try to keep distance from others at home;
- Cover your cough or sneeze with flexed elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin;
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Gadebe said while the first cases probably involved exposure to an animal source, the virus now spreads from person to person. Thus far the majority of cases have occurred in people with close physical contact to infected persons and healthcare workers caring for patients with Covid-19.
“Current symptoms reported for patients with Covid-19 includes mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Anyone with any of the symptoms is advised to go to the nearest health care facility.
“There is no vaccine for Covid-19. Officials in China have intensified efforts to contain the spread of the virus,” said Gadebe.
Leading the City of Ekurhuleni Outbreak Team is Dr Joseph Sepuya and Dr Ronnel Kellerman, who can be reached on 082 826 1987 and 084 974 6051 respectively.
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