The Mpumalanga Department of Health Chief of Staff tested positive of COVID19 last week Wednesday.
According to a statement released by the department on Sunday, Bheki Sithole developed Flu-like symptoms last week Tuesday and tested positive for COVID19 the following day.
“COVID-19 is a Notifiable Medical Condition and this official gave consent for the public declaration of his results and status. His condition has been classified as a mild disease and he will remain in self-isolation for 14 days,” said Dumisani Malamule, the Department’ Spokesperson
Malamule stated that the staff members in the office of MEC and all other people who came into contact with him have been listed as close contacts.
“Contact tracing and monitoring have been initiated as per guideline. The office of the MEC will be closed and decontaminated as per protocol,” he said.
Malamule said that the Office of the MEC for Health has a public duty to declare positive cases as part of the drive to fight against stigma and ignorance surrounding COVID-19 and to promote transparency.
“We would like to confirm that the MEC for Health Ms Sasekani Manzini has taken a test for COVID-19 and the results came negative.” said the Department’ spokeperson.
Malamule said sent condolences to the people who have tested positive in the province.
“The Department and the MEC wishes the official and every person who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the province a speedy recovery during this period. She sends her heartfelt condolences to families who lost their loved ones as a result of COVID-19 related deaths.”
“The Department of Health will continue to work with all stakeholders in the effort to provide care and support to people infected with COVID-19 and to prevent the spread of the disease in the province,” he said.
Nobunga also urged private reserves to stick to provisioned protocol.