Health MEC concerned over resurgence of Covid-19 cases in Lephalale

LIMPOPO – Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba is concerned abut the resurgence of Covid-19 cases in the Waterberg district. This after 57 new positive Covid-19 cases were reported in the space of four days at the Exxaro Grootgeluk coal mine west outside Lephalale.

A total of 18 of the 57 cases were recorded on Wednesday (November 24). According to a statement issued on Thursday morning (November 25), the Department of Health in Limpopo has dispatched a team of health workers to the mine.

“All mine workers and staff will be screened and tested,” Ramathuba said.

She added that the majority of those who tested positive and are symptomatic are those who are not vaccinated. She added that those who have tested positive but are vaccinated are not displaying severe symptoms and are being kept in isolation at their residences.

“This increase in cases comes despite the efforts of the department and that of the mine to offer all workers vaccines at their workplace.”

She warned that the ‘honeymoon period’ will soon be over as the fourth wave becomes a reality.

“We call on everyone to adhere to Covid-19 protocols. The virus is still very much present and as a department we are concerned that our people behave as if the virus has been has been wiped away.”

Ramathuba concluded the statement by advising those who have not yet vaccinated to join the millions of other South Africans and get vaccinated ‘in order to save our lives’. “Those who refuse to be vaccinated are advised to stay away from any gatherings.”

According to the latest Covid-19 statistics issued by the National Department of Health, Limpopo has since the start of the pandemic recorded 123 201 positive cases of which 117 930 patients have recovered. The province has also recorded a total of 4 096 deaths.

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