The battle against COVID-19 continues, as South Africa prepares to enter level 4 of the nationwide lockdown.
While certain regulations are being eased, as of May 1, the wearing of face masks will be compulsory. Wearing a mask when in public places, especially crowded places, can help slow the spread of Covid-19. Even when wearing a mask, hand-washing and social distancing remain the most important interventions to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
Health Minisiter, Dr Zweli Mkhize has encouraged the use of cloth face masks.
Cloth masks are easy and are not expensive to make and are reusable. They also help reduce the transmission of COVID-19, acting as a shield to contain the respiratory droplets through which the virus spreads.
Promoting the use of cloth masks, the Islamic Medical Association in conjunction with the local Masks4All in Africa team has reached out to the community.
On Thursday, April 30, Dr Famida Ajam, Dr Tandweer Khan and Farieda Mia of the Masks4All initiative in Newcastle went out to the Newcastle clinic to hand out face masks to patients.
Dr Ajam explains that as face masks become mandatory as of May 1, the initiative is now reaching out to the community. This is to ensure that as many people as possible have access to a face mask.
“The main thing is to create awareness about people wearing masks. Especially now with the lockdown easing up,” says Dr Ajam.
Masks were also handed out at the Gateway Clinic at Madadeni Provincial Hospital by Dr Kaloo and a team of nurses.
The cloth masks that Masks4All in Africa provides and makes all meet the requirements set by the Department of Health.
The initiative is also driven by highly motivated volunteers, all of whom are dedicated to making a positive impact during the battle against COVID-19.
Read more: Sew a mask and save a life with Masks4All
Dr Ajam extends a heartfelt thanks to all the ladies and volunteers who have helped her get the campaign off the ground. Their efforts are truly appreciated.
Anyone who wants to contribute to the Masks4All in Africa or to acquire a fabric mask can contact the following numbers:
- 083 786 8333
- 084 247 3071
- 072 124 2412
- 081 337 8176
- 083 557 3627
