Lenmed about Covid-19 second wave, advice to public

With the number of infections in SA rising daily, the Herald spoke to two accident and emergency doctors from Lenmed Randfontein Private Hospital about the current Covid-19 situation.

They also gave some advice to ensure the public that Lenmed is there to help.

Lenmed Randfontein Private Hospital is fully operational and prepared to treat all medical and surgical conditions. All safety protocols are in place to ensure everyone’s safety.

According to Dr Courage Mkhawana, when one shows Covid-19 symptoms, the most important thing is to self-isolate immediately to avoid contact and limit the potential spread of the virus to other individuals – these include your close family members.

He added that the next ideal recommendation is to get tested as soon as possible at an approved, reputable centre such as a registered laboratory or a medical facility.

Dr Sibusiso Makamu stated that to some patients, Covid-19 is potentially a life-threatening disease.

Most people just have mild flu-like symptoms and usually recover without serious consequences, but people in the vulnerable groups should be taken care of closely as they are at a high risk of becoming infected. They are those with diabetes mellitus, and immuno-suppressed patients,” said Dr Makamu.

Dr Mkhawana advised that in order to stay safe one must avoid direct contact, especially when interacting in closed gatherings.

“Maintain social distancing of about two metres, always wear your mask covering both your nose and mouth, and furthermore wash your hands constantly with soap for at least 20 seconds, don’t forget to sanitize and always remain calm and apply the basic necessary preventative measures,” said Dr Mkhawana.

When asked what if people have illnesses unrelated to Covid-19 and emergencies, and if it is advisable to come to the hospital, Dr Makamu said that all ill patients are advised to seek medical care even in the midst of the pandemic.

“Doctors and nursing staff will attend to all medical emergencies at the Lenmed Randfontein Private Hospital, and patients should not hesitate to come to hospital if faced with a medical emergency,” said Dr Makamu.

He added that the hospital is set up in such a way that everyone gets appropriate screening and triage before they consult to ensure the safety and well-being of the patients as well as the staff on duty.

If Covid-19 patients are at home and their health is deteriorating they should contact our emergency unit. We will then prepare an isolation unit and get our team ready to assist them promptly. These patients should also inform the ambulance and emergency personnel about their Covid status,” said Dr Mkhawana.

According to Dr Makamu there has been an influx of Covid patients due to the second wave, but the hospital has the necessary measures in place to handle all patients coming in.

Dr Mkhawana stated that onsite testing is conducted at the hospital’s labs, and one can contact the hospital on 087 087 2700 and they will assign you to the respective lab.

Lenmed Randfontein Private Hospital has the following safety precautions in place:

• Strict screening protocols for everyone who enters the building
• Restrictions on the number of people entering the building, including suppliers and unfortunately visitors
• Enforced masking, hand hygiene and social distancing
• Experienced doctors and nurses who fully understand the requirements when treating both Covid-19 and non-Covid-19 patients
• Sufficient and appropriate PPE which is carefully monitored, especially during donning and doffing
• Carefully demarcated and isolated units for Covid-19 patients monitored by robust security and infection-prevention teams
• Intense cleaning and hygiene regimes.