Garden Route health platform update
The latest Covid-19 update by the Western Cape Department of Health indicates a total of 20 COVID-19-related deaths in the Garden Route: George (12); Knysna (4); Mossel Bay (2); Bitou (1) and Hessequa (1).
There are currently 44 patients in public and private hospitals, with five patients in intensive care units.
Herewith the breakdown of cases and recoveries per subdistrict:
* Bitou 55 cases – 18 recoveries
* Knysna 142 cases – 89 recoveries
* George 460 cases – 168 recoveries
* Hessequa 20 cases – 17 recoveries
* Kannaland 5 cases – 3 recoveries
* Mossel Bay 175 cases – 68 recoveries
* Oudsthoorn 58 cases – 23 recoveries
Community testing and screening
The department is continuing with community testing, as well as the screening of those above 55 years of age, the vulnerable and those of high risk (people with comorbidities).
To date 121 095 people have been screened and 635 referred for testing.
Isolation and quarantine
People who cannot isolate or quarantine safely at home can be referred to as an isolation or quarantine facility. Isolation facilities are where patients with mild to moderate symptoms can recover (usually 14 days) and quarantine facilities are for those awaiting test results. These facilities are safe and comfortable and patients will receive free transport, meals, and a laundry service.
PetroSA (West Camp) is currently the only activated isolation and quarantine facility in the Garden Route. More facilities will be announced, if and when the need arises or capacity is exceeded at PetroSA. There are currently 53 people in isolation.
What should I bring with me to a quarantine or isolation facility?
Favourite snacks or treats, clothes and pyjamas, toothbrush, toothpaste and other toiletries, towels, face cloths and soap. A phone charger if you have a phone, chronic medication, something that reminds you of your loved ones e.g. family photos, and books, magazines or crafts.
What can I expect?
• Transport to and from the facility
• A room and access to a bathroom
• Regular meals
• To monitor and report your symptoms
• To stay in touch with your loved ones using your own phone
• To clean your own room
• Laundry facility available
• Rules to protect other guests and staff e.g. not leaving your room
• No visitors allowed
• No alcohol or drugs allowed
• Advice from your health and social worker on returning home.
Primary healthcare
Although the department urges patients to only visit their nearest clinic for essential services, parents and caregivers are reminded that services such as immunisations are still rendered.
It is important to attend all your confirmed appointments. Services such as women’s health (family planning, antenatal and post-natal care), child health (immunisations) and TB, are still rendered. Stable chronic care patients must collect their chronic medicine at chronic off-sites. Should you require guidance or advice around your current treatment or a scheduled appointment, please contact your clinic/hospital.
The 5 golden rules
As Covid-19 cases are increasing in the Garden Route, we should all do our part and adhere to the five golden rules:
- Keep 1,5 meters away from others (social distancing) and wear a cloth mask when you go out.
- Wash your hand often with water and soap or hand sanitiser.
- Do not touch your face.
- Cough and sneeze in the fold of your arm or in a tissue.
- Stay home when sick.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route district news’
Source: Knysna Plett Herald News