GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The content of a WhatsApp message circulating in Graaff-Reinet that there are two patients at Midland Hospital who have been tested for the Coronavirus could not be confirmed.
However, according to various sources who were not prepared to go on record, two people have indeed been tested, and are currently being quarantined in the hospital.
"The patients have been quarantined, and all personnel of the hospital, including security, have been given masks to wear," one of the sources said.
Many people across South Africa are being tested for the virus and then prove to be virus free. Eastern Cape health department spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo said earlier today (16 March) that 28 people have tested negative for coronavirus in the Eastern Cape since the outbreak of the virus.
Marie de Vos, Hospital Manager of Midland Hospital, could not be reached for comment, and the doctor on duty said he was not allowed to give comment on behalf of the hospital. An inquiry has been sent to The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and the Eastern Cape Department of Health.
This article will be updated once comment is received.
The public is advised to call the coronavirus hotline on 0800 029 999 with any suspected cases of corona, or to report or obtain information relevant to the pandemic.
People can also phone their doctor or a clinic should they be concerned about flu-like symptoms. The main Covid-19 symptoms are a fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
'We bring you the latest Karoo news'
