Concern as residents still gather in big groups

Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba has expressed concern that residents are still not adhering to safety measures as pronounced by President Cyril Ramaphosa recently that it was not safe for people to gather in large groups as one of the precautionary measures to guard against the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19).
On Sunday she said it was concerning that some community members in Limpopo are ignoring the proclamation by the President regarding gathering in large crowds as a precautionary measure against Covid-19. Ramathuba stressed that it was concerning that despite the evidence of mass infection in a church set up as it was seen in the Free State, people in Limpopo continue to gather in churches, drinking halls, funerals and even shopping malls.
“Coming from the weekend, we have seen people gathering in large crowds as if it is still business as usual. This is indicative that some of our community members have still not internalised the veracity of the challenges facing the country. This is time for community members to take full responsibility for their wellbeing. Under the circumstance, we expect the people to do what is right and not require the Police to chase after them in order to do what is right,” Ramathuba explained.
She reckons that such ignorant behaviours are a push-back against government’s concerted effort to fight the spread against Covid-19. She added that no matter how much effort government can put on the fight against the scourge, if community members do not play ball, the country will not win the battle against the virus. Ramathuba called on communities to take the issue of Covid-19 serious and take the necessary precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 epidemic.

Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za