The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed today [April 15] that four members have tested positive for the coronavirus. Three of the cases are from the Western Cape, while the other is in Gauteng.
In a statement released this morning, SANDF said that none of the infected members were uniformed members, nor were they deployed in assistance of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“It is imperative to note that the military community is bigger than the South African Defence Force (SANDF). The military community is inclusive of dependents of the serving, retired soldiers and others eligible for care by the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS). All COVID-19 cases are treated and managed as per COVID-19 prescribed protocol,” they said in the statement.
They ensured that preventative measures are in place, including the issuing of PPEs to frontline workers (medical teams, nurses, doctors, porters including soldiers patrolling), thermal screening, hand sanitizing, and wearing of surgical masks. The SAMHS are also providing education on how to correctly use masks and on social distancing.
“The SANDF has also identified quarantine and isolation facilities for the military community in preparation for the envisaged overflow in military hospitals and sickbays. These facilities are Department of Defence establishments with accommodation capacity in all provinces,” they said.
Picture: Facebook / SA National Defence Force