Premier Alan Winde issues stern message to stay indoors during Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown

Today marked the first day of the nation-wide lockdown. We thank those residents who have taken the lockdown seriously. However, there were far too many reports of people not taking the lockdown seriously from across the province.

The Western Cape Government is working with SAPS, local law enforcement and our own traffic services in a bid to ensure that this does not continue.

Today’s deaths are a somber reminder of the impact of this virus and we all need to be playing our part to protect ourselves and our families. We are all at risk of contracting this virus – it does not discriminate, and it will impact every single community. The worst hit communities will be those where residents are currently not abiding by the lockdown. The effects of this behaviour will be felt in the weeks to come, when infections rise dramatically, and deaths start to occur.

Residents are reminded that they are only allowed to leave if they are rendering an essential service, if they are buying groceries, going to the pharmacy or seeking medical attention.

Residents who do leave their homes under these circumstances must also continue to practice social distancing – keep away from other people. Do not stand next to people in a queue. Wash or sanitise your hands all the time.

We also call on businesses who are operating as essential at this time to ensure that their employees are working in safe and hygienic conditions.

Clinical update:

The Western Cape had by 2pm, recorded 260  infections in the province. It is with deep sadness that the province also recorded its first deaths associated with the virus.

The regional breakdown of infections is as follows: 

  • Cape Town Metro-195
  • Garden Route-13
  • Cape Winelands: 10
  • Overberg: 7 
  • Location unknown: 35 

As reported earlier, two deaths have been recorded in the province: 48 year old woman, who tested positive for COVID-19, and a 28 year old woman, who at the time of the announcement, fit the clinical profile for COVID-19.

Social and humanitarian response:

Child and youth care centres continue to function under the lockdown and social workers are operational in communities. Services to victims of violence also continue to operate. Those seeking advice on how to access these services can call the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428. The call centre is operational 24/7.

Media Queries:
Bianca Capazorio
Spokesperson for Premier Alan Winde
Cell: 072 372 7044
E-mail: bianca.capazorio@westerncape.gov.za

Province

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