The Western Cape now has 13 331 active cases of COVID-19, with a total of 83 948 confirmed cases and 68 001 recoveries as of July 19.
An additional 29 deaths were recorded since the last update, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in the province to 2 616.
The breakdown is as follows:
The total number of cases in the Western Cape is lower today than it was yesterday. This is because some cases from other provinces were mistakenly allocated to the Western Cape over the past week. This has been corrected, and as such, the total number of cases stands at 83 948 today.
End of my isolation period:
“Today marks 14 days since I first started experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. When I first started my isolation, the mandatory self-isolation period was 14 days – however Minister Zweli Mkhize announced on Friday that this has now been revised to 10 days for those who test positive, in line with WHO recommendations. I have therefore completed my isolation,” says Western Cape Premier Alan Winde.
According to Winde his health is slowly improving but he is still experiencing some symptoms including a cough.
“Over the past two weeks, I have been following my doctor’s instructions to rest as much as possible, especially as I am in the high risk group of being a type 2 diabetic. I have therefore been conducting a limited number of essential meetings from home during this period, but I am due to return to work tomorrow. I will continue to take precautions until I am fully recovered. I urge anyone who is COVID-19 positive, and especially those who fall into high risk groups, being over the age of 55 or with underlying illnesses, to do the same. Diabetics should also be monitoring themselves and their blood glucose levels closely,” adds Winde.
Winde also noted the immense kindness and support he had received from people across the province and the country during his isolation period.
“I am grateful for all of the messages, and support, which reflect the wonderful spirit of the people of this country. I ask that we all continue to hold those who are sick in our thoughts and take all the necessary precautions to ensure that we protect ourselves and others from contracting COVID-19,” he said.
Winde reminded residents that simple steps such as staying home as much as possible, wearing a mask and frequently washing ones hands were powerful tools in fighting the virus.
“These are simple precautions that can have a major impact, and I thank those people who have really taken every effort to protect themselves and their loved ones,” he concluded.
Read more about the recent data update here.
Picture: Pixabay