Mayor Makhubo calls on the public to not to ostracise those infected with Covid-19.
Executive Mayor Geoffrey Makhubo has called on the residents of Johannesburg to shake off the stigma around the Covid-19 pandemic. In a statement released by the City, the mayor acknowledged that Joburg is now the country’s newly proclaimed epicentre for the novel coronavirus but committed the City resources and expertise to curbing the spread. “I urge you to please look after each other. Our colleagues who have tested positive for Covid-19 are still our friends and workmates. We should not shun them or treat them like lepres.”
According to the mayor, the City has already lost six officials to Covid-19 and he feels that the destigmatising beliefs around the virus will help people tackle the virus, as the country did with HIV/Aids. He stated, “A colleague in my office recently tested positive for Covid-19. We all rallied around them and gave our unstinting support at this crucial time and they have returned to work stronger and more resolute to ensuring that our residents get services delivered on time.”
For Makhubo, only a committed united effort between the City, the public, business and all other role players can win the war against Covid-19. “We will win the war against the novel coronavirus. We might lose battles along the way, but we need to face the enemy together and present a united front.” Although a cure for Covid-19 is yet to be found, the mayor emphasises that pharmaceutical companies are working to produce a vaccine, with a breakthrough expected around 2021. In the meanwhile, the City has advised all to practise good hygiene, observe social distancing and sanitise often.
