Covid-19: Health MEC says Limpopo is on ‘High Alert’
The MEC for Health, Dr Phophi Ramathuba called for residents to abide by Covid-19 regulations following several complaints of non-compliance at various entertainment venues in the city.
LIMPOPO – Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba has confirmed that the province is officially on high alert due to the number of people who have tested positive for Covid-19 over the past weekend. In an exclusive interview with the Polokwane Review, Ramathuba says four municipal areas in the province are currently experiencing a second wave of infections and majority of the affected people are young people.
“We have seen more young people testing positive and it is worrying the amount of social gatherings where these young people are in attendance. This calls for a concern.” Ramathuba was speaking after complaints of non-compliance to Covid-19 regulations at various entertainment venues in the city were reported.
Read more: Limpopo Covid-19: Polokwane and Thabazimbi have entered a ‘high alert stage’
According to Ramathuba, the highest contributing factor is social gatherings and their lack of adherence to Covid-19 regulations where no masks are worn, no social distancing observed and no frequent sanitisation of hands and surfaces. “We have seen on social media that young people are going out and they are not afraid of contracting the virus. This is very worrying and we are calling on parents and guardians to discourage their children from attending these gatherings for their own safety. “
Ramathuba says some young people get infected and do not realise they have Covid-19 until their parents contract the virus and when contact tracing is done, it is found that the children are responsible for bringing the virus home. She says this is a reality and the department has had a few of these cases. She has urged residents to stay home and stay safe. “If it is not necessary, then do not leave your home, have your Christmas and New Year parties with your family in order to protect them. By doing this, you ensure that you stay safe. If you need to leave the house, ensure that you adhere to all the regulations that have been put into place.”
Read more: Event organisers can be held liable when guests do not comply with Covid-19 regulations – Ledet
Police spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo says people may call their nearest police station or the toll free number at 086 001 0111 and report any violations of the regulations under the Disaster Management Act, including the curfew.
