COVID-19 or as many know it as Coronavirus has now infected 85,400 people worldwide and causing a shockwave of anxiety around the world.
At this stage, experts have very little understanding of the virus, medical institutes around the world are working around the clock to understand it further and create immunizations.
Governments around the world are urging citizens to “self-isolate” in the event you begin to show symptoms.
Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties.
World Health Organization
It has been estimated that 199 South African nationals are living in Wuhan, China – The origin of where the outbreak began. Cyril Ramaphosa on the 27th of February 2020 expressed his “solidarity” with the people living in Wuhan at this time.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed the repatriation of South African citizens from Wuhan city in Hubei province, China. Cabinet has decided on this course of action after due consideration of the circumstances, and following several requests from the families of South Africans in the city. “
At this time there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in South Africa however, the emergency services say they are “prepared” for Coronavirus.
“We would like to provide the reassurance that, in strict accordance with NICD and National Department of Health protocols, Mediclinic has implemented the necessary measures to manage any patients presenting with symptoms and to prevent the potential transmission of the virus in our facilities.
While the current health risk to the general South African public is low, based on current information, we urge the public to take the necessary precautions when travelling to affected areas. We also encourage anyone experiencing signs and symptoms of flu or who thinks that they may have been exposed to the virus to contact their healthcare provider.”
ER24
