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Covid-19: Number of confirmed coronavirus deaths rises by ten

Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize said that the Western Cape now has the most cases of coronavirus in the country.

Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize announced on 23 April that the number of coronavirus cases in South Africa has risen by 318. There are now 3 953 confirmed cases in South Africa.

There were six recorded deaths in the Western Cape, two in KwaZulu-Natal and one Gauteng and the Eastern Cape respectively. This brings the total to 75.

“It is notable that today (23 April) the Western Cape has surpassed Gauteng’s confirmed cases and now has the highest number of Covid-19 positive cases in the country. A further analysis is being done as we are observing the outbreak cluster in the Western Cape. This means that a large number of people who operate and interact in the same area (eg. factories, shopping centres) are testing positive,” said Mkhize.

Mkhize said that there have been over 140 000 tests conducted in the country, 62 per cent of which have been done by the private sector.

“We are observing a steady increase in the number of positive cases. While this is concerning, we are also pleased that the intensified community screening and testing campaign is assisting in finding more Covid-19 positive patients. This allows us to take the necessary actions such as isolation, quarantine or hospitalisation if required.”

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