Today marks the first day of national lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and unfortunately, the first coronavirus deaths in South Africa have been recorded. This was confirmed by the Minister of health, Zweli Mkhize on Friday.
“This morning, we wake South Africans up with sad news that we now have our first deaths resulting from COVID-19”
“These two deaths occurred in the Western Cape, One at a private Hospital and the other at a Public Hospital;” continued Zweli Mkhize in a statement.
“More details to follow”
Zweli has also confirmed that there has been an increase in cases and has tipped the 1000 mark.
Yesterday there were a total of 927 coronavirus cases.
It is with deep sadness that we announce two loss of lives to #coronavirus . We will update with more details pic.twitter.com/WXUORwjjHL
— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) March 27, 2020
Important links through the lockdown
- SA COVID-19 Lockdown: Essential Goods and Services explained
- Gov: Free Browsing During Lockdown, Stay informed (coronavirus.datafree.co)
- Breaking lockdown rules may land you in jail for up to a month or fined
- COVID-19 Pandemic: No walks, No Jogging, stay Home
- COVID-19: “a nation-wide lockdown for 21 days with effect from midnight on Thursday 26 March”
- COVID-19: 7 things to know about South African Lockdown, Guidelines, and Information
Western Cape Office of the Premier issued a statement, as Premier Alan Winde talks about the first deaths of COVID-19 in Western Cape.
“Today, we woke up to the sad news that we, too, have seen our first casualties. A 28-year-old woman and 48-year-old woman both passed away this morning.”
“The 48-year-old woman’s condition worsened while in ICU, and she passed away this morning.”
The younger patient was admitted on Thursday and received emergency healthcare and it is believed she succumbed to the COVID-19 virus.
“The clinical picture is consistent with COVID-19 but we are awaiting the test results to confirm this.”
