The number of COVID-19 cases grows daily, with over 3.6 million confirmed cases globally. As the confirmed cases increases, so does the recovery rate and the death toll.
Globally, there have been over 1.1 million recoveries and over 250 000 deaths. But what about South Africa? Where does our country’s figures stand?
As of May 4, the confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Africa stands at 7 220. The provincial breakdown is as follows:
- Eastern Cape – 814
- Free State – 125
- Gauteng – 1661
- KwaZulu-Natal – 1106
- Limpopo – 39
- Mpumalanga – 53
- North West – 35
- Northern Cape – 25
- Western Cape – 3362
Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, explains that a total of 257 541 tests have been conducted to date. Out of this figure, 11 794 were done in the past 24 hours. Furthermore, Dr Mkhize was pleased to report 2746 recoveries.
However, the death toll has also increased.
“Regrettably, we report seven more COVID-19 related deaths, six from the Western Cape and one from KwaZulu-Natal. This brings the total deaths nationally to 138,” says Dr Mkhize.
Dr Mkhize extends his condolences to the families of the deceased. Furthermore, he thanks the health care workers who treated the patients.
Hospital Burden
As of May 2, Dr Mkhize explains we 411 people were hospitalized in the country. According to Dr Mkhize this translates to approximately 5% of all COVID-19 confirmed patients. This is apparently consistent with the hospitalization rates that were seen in China.
“Our mortality rate has remained stable at around 1.9% since the first death was reported. This is below the world average which is 3.4% as estimated by the World Health Organisation,” he explains.
As a reminder to all South Africans, Dr Mkhize explains the principle of flattening the curve is to limit the spread of the infection in such a way, that the numbers do not rise to the extent that they overwhelm the health care system.
As winter sets in, Dr Mkhize reminds South Africans that we will be confronted with the additional burden of influenza and other pneumonias, bronchiolitis in children, exacerbations of asthma and chronic obstructive airways disease and winter related trauma, like burns injuries.
“I, therefore, urge each and every South African to continue to play your part in easing the load on the health care system. Stay home if you do not have to venture out, wear a mask at all times in public places, wash your hands regularly and disinfect surfaces you normally come into contact with.”
Dr Mkhize also urges employers whose businesses have opened to take all the necessary measures to protect their employees.
“I salute our health professionals- our doctors, nurses, care workers, community workers, allied health professionals, medical technicians, pharmacists, porters, cleaners, laboratory technicians and all our foot soldiers in the front line of health care who continue to serve under these trying times,” Dr Mkhize concludes.
