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City hospital ready for virus

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“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 health care provider.”

MEDICLINIC Gariep has reassured patients that the hospital is prepared to deal with any cases of coronavirus and all the necessary protocols are in place.

Denise Coetzee, spokesperson for Mediclinic Kimberley/Gariep, confirmed yesterday that there were currently no confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus at the hospital.

“In strict accordance with National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and National Department of Health protocols, Mediclinic Gariep has implemented the necessary measures to manage any patients presenting with symptoms and to prevent the potential transmission of the virus in our facilities,” said Coetzee.

She added that the hospital’s emergency centre manager, as well as the infection prevention and control manager, staff and doctors in the emergency centre had been provided with a comprehensive set of guidelines based on the documents released by the NICD and World Health Organisation (WHO).

“Processes have been implemented to identify high-risk patients on admission. Patients who test positive for the coronavirus can rest assured that MediclinIc Gariep is equipped and ready to receive and treat them. Infection prevention and control is in place to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients and staff,” Coetzee added.

“We would like to reassure our patients that as it is currently the traditional flu season, many of the basic respiratory symptoms are present and this does not imply that any patient presenting with symptoms is positive for the novel coronavirus.

“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. The most effective way to prevent transmission is good hand hygiene and good cough etiquette. Wearing of facial masks is not indicated to prevent transmission.

“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 health care provider.”

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