Doctors in Modimolle facility released after Covid-19 test results
The Department of Health in Limpopo earlier today announced that the two doctors held at the MDR-TB facility in Modimolle will be released with “immediate” effect.
LIMPOPO – Their release happens to be effected on the same day judgment was expected in the Polokwane High Court in a case the South African Medical Association made against the department for institutionalising the doctors, who had both self-isolated after testing positive for Covid-19.
Read more: Limpopo Health MEC forces doctors into isolation facility through court order
Sama approached the court after the doctors were seemingly forcefully admitted to the facility after the department obtained a court interdict for the police to move them to the Modimolle facility.
Several videos of the incident were circulated on social media last week.
The doctors were following national protocol in terms of due course when one tests positive for Covid-19, which is to self-isolate when asymptomatic or showing mild symptoms.
This protocol is also prescribed by the World Health Organisation.
In a press statement, the department said the MEC welcomed the result of the re-test.
“Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba welcomes the Covid-19 negative test results of the two doctors from Modimolle. The two doctors, who work in Mpumalanga, tested positive for Covid-19 and were taken into the department’s isolation site. The doctors’ latest test results have come out negative. Subsequent to the release of the latest results, doctors at the isolation site have recommended that the two doctors be released. The two doctors will be released immediately,” Thilivhali Muavha, Spokesperson for the MEC, said.
Comment could not immediately be sourced from Sama. This is a developing story and we will keep readers updated on any future developments.
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