Of the 18 recorded cases with no fatalities, it includes 10 females and eight males.
This shows an increase in the number of positive cases of the Coronavirus in the province. The 18 positive cases were reported in all the three districts with Ehlanzeni recording nine, Gert Sibande five and four in Nkangala.
A total of 208 tests for Covid- 19 have been conducted, of which 176 people have tested negative, with Ehlanzeni recording 103, Nkangala 43 and Gert Sibande 30.
Meanwhile, the police have detained eight undocumented persons yesterday on the N12 road around Ogies for contravening the Immigration Regulations. The undocumented persons are believed to be Bangladesh nationals.
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According to the report, police were busy patrolling the area when they spotted a Grey Toyota Avanza which was fully loaded with occupants.
Police became more suspicious when they noticed the vehicle at that particular time because in terms of the Lockdown Regulations, public transport should adhere to the stipulated times and only ferry essential staff within stipulated time/places.
Upon stopping the vehicle, police conducted a search whereby it was established that eight occupants were undocumented.
These men were then detained and preliminary investigation has revealed that they are alleged to be from Bangladesh.
The Departments of Home Affairs and Health were coordinated so that the necessary precautionary measures could be followed in terms of the Covid-19 Guidelines and Regulations. The suspects will appear in absentia in the Witbank Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.
The MEC for Health, Sasekani Manzini says the Department of health has already screened all eight men for COVID-19.
“Of the eight, one is showing signs of COVID-19 infection. The department has taken tests from the suspect to establish whether he is infected or not. All the men will be quarantined for the duration of incubation period,” she explained.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, they will have the men deported back to their country once all processes have been completed.
In addition, Manzini is calling on the public to stay at home, avoid unnecessary movement to the shops and contacts during the lockdown period.
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“The intention of the lockdown is not to frustrate the public, but to prevent more spread in an effort to flatten the curve”.
She also urges the people to seek medical treatment if they experience symptoms of COVID-19, which include coughing, high temperature of 38 degrees and above, fever, sore throat and diarrhea.
“People who might have been in contact with people who tested positive, are urged to come forward for testing and assessment,” Manzini appeals.