The National Command Council of South Africa have addressed the public on Friday afternoon, to give us all a vital update on what’s happening with the battle against coronavirus. The government have stated that, of the two deaths recorded today, one of them hasn’t actually been confirmed – bringing the toll down to one.
Coronavirus in South Africa – latest news and updates
Friday marked our first full day of lockdown – while a national operation to keep people indoors was always going to be tough, both SAPS and SANDF made their presence felt. But there were a few hiccups along the way. Several incidents of law-breaking have been reported.
We also registered the first coronavirus deaths in South Africa earlier today. Two Western Cape residents – aged 28 and 48 respectively – were believed to have succumbed to the disease this week, but one of those fatalities has been downgraded to a “suspected” case. We are expecting clarity on this later tonight.
How many coronavirus cases and deaths in South Africa, as of Friday 27 March?
In total, cases recorded in South Africa have now skyrocketed to 1 170, as the worst part of this nightmare situation begins to unfold. For context, cases were only at 554 on Tuesday. They have doubled in the past few days, and have increased by about 250 in the past 24 hours.
Jackson Mthembu made the announcement in place of Zweli Mkhize, who is currently locked in discussions with the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Minister Jackson Mthembu said the minister of health said to him to relay that there are now 1170 confirmed cases of #Covid19SA 1 death confirmed confirmed to be linked to Covid-19. Second death is suspected to be linked- yet to be confirmed.
— Qaanitah|Mzekezeke|Hunter (@QaanitahHunter) March 27, 2020
How long will lockdown last?
Lockdown should be finished by Thursday 16 April, all being well. Nations all across the world have imposed strict social limitations, but South Africa’s are arguably more stringent than most. Given we have millions of citizens with vulnerable immune systems, it is vital that they are protected by the government, and by us members of the public. The message is simple: Stay home, save lives.
Source: The South African Read More
