Spokesperson for the Department of Health, Lebogang Majaha, confirmed that a female doctor employed at the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital was in self-quarantine.
THE DEPARTMENT of Health has confirmed that a doctor at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley has tested positive for Covid-19.
Staff members on Wednesday refused to enter a section of the building after they were informed of the latest infection that brings the total number of Covid-19 positive cases in the Northern Cape to 38.
Spokesperson for the Department of Health, Lebogang Majaha, confirmed that a female doctor employed at the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital was in self-quarantine.
“As soon as she became aware of her test results she went into self-isolation at her home. Whilst waiting for confirmation of the result, the department took precautionary steps by sending in the tracing team and tested any potential contacts, placing them under quarantine until the results are known.
“We commend the Sol Plaatje Municipality for its swift response in disinfecting all the affected areas in the hospital overnight.”
He stated that all patients admitted to hospital, as well as all contacts of identified Covid-19 positive people, including those of the doctor confirmed on Wednesday evening, would be tested.
“This is part of our proactive strategy for early detection of possible hotpots.
“We would like to commend all the staff involved for all their support and professionalism during these challenging circumstances. We also apologise to any patients who have been inconvenienced during this process. Only by standing together and supporting each other will we be able to defeat this epidemic.”
MEC for Health, Mase Monnapule, reiterated her commitment towards ensuring that all frontline staff were provided with the necessary personal protective equipment.
