You can recover from Covid-19, says Springs resident

Covid-19 has taken over our lives and has changed the world as we know it.

For many, the virus is frightening and there is a fear that testing positive means death.

Springs resident Gugwelihle Ngwenya (28), who has recovered from Covid-19, spoke to the Advertiser about her experience.

How do you think you contracted Covid-19?

I contracted the virus from my mom who is a nurse. She contracted it from a colleague.

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Were you surprised when you tested positive?

No, I knew I was going to contract it; however, I didn’t expect it to happen so soon.

Can you describe the test for Covid-19 for us?

The test was a throat swab, which wasn’t painful, just a touch uncomfortable.

How did you feel when you tested positive?

I wasn’t shocked because I knew I was in close contact with someone who had tested positive, but reality started sinking in.

Did you have any symptoms to indicate you might have Covid-19?

Not really. Two days prior to getting tested I would wake up with a sore throat but that would last for only about 30 minutes.The day before I got tested my body was ice cold. I would sit next to heater but still feel cold.I also lost my sense of smell and taste.I still can’t quite taste everything unless its heavily seasoned.

Did these symptoms change after you tested positive?

No, I lost my appetite for about a week and then regained it. When I got hungry I would immediately want food or I’d throw tantrums.

How did you treat the virus?

I steamed with Vicks Vapour Rub and drank the medicinal herb, African wormwood, commonly known as umhlonyane.I took one aspirin per day, throat throat lozenges and drank ginger tea or warm water with a slice of lemon, honey and pieces of raw onion.I’d also sit the sun for a few minutes a day.

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For how long did you do the treatment?

Fourteen days.

Did people treat you any differently after they found out you’ve had Covid-19?

No, however, I’m very grateful to the people who showed support.

Did you retest again to find out if you’re negative, and after how long did you test after your initial positive test?

I got my initial results after three days. After the 14 days, I didn’t retest.

What would you say to other people who’ve recently tested positive for Covid-19?

Isolate yourself from the day you get tested. Remain positive; try avoiding anything related to the death toll and don’t look for additional information on the internet. Sanitise and wear a mask at all times.

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