Winde in isolation after testing positive

PREMIER Alan Winde tested positive for Covid-19 yesterday and is in self-isolation at home.

Winde said that he had received a positive test result yesterday morning, and would be self-isolating for 14 days.

“On Sunday, I started to develop mild flu-like symptoms. As I am diabetic (type 2) and over 55 years of age, I know I am at a higher risk of developing a more serious illness. I therefore went to be tested to determine the cause of the symptoms on Monday,” he said.

He remained at home as soon as he started feeling sick, and said his symptoms were mild and felt like having a cold.

“However, given my risk category I will be carefully monitoring my health to make sure that any change is picked up quickly.”

He would continue to conduct all meetings to co-ordinate the province’s Covid-19 response, he said.

Winde said he had contacted all of his close contacts from three days prior to experiencing symptoms, based on the medical advice received.

“This is an important responsibility that we must all undertake when we test positive. Close contacts must self-quarantine. This means that you must stay at home and not come into contact with other people.”

The province has reported 16 750 active cases of Covid-19, with 72 808 confirmed cases and 53 881 recoveries made as of 1pm on yesterday.

The number of tests conducted is 334 928. At present, 1 775 people have been hospitalised due to Covid-19, with 322 patients in ICU or high care.

About 2 177 people have since died due to the virus. There are 6 018 confirmed cases of Covid-19 that are unallocated, of which 3 493 recoveries were made.

“My message to the people of the Western Cape at this time is to take Covid-19 seriously. Follow the five golden rules at all times, including wearing a cloth mask, cleaning surfaces regularly and washing or sanitising your hands often. And please be kind and compassionate at all times,” said Winde. “To those residents who have also tested positive for Covid-19, I wish you strength and speedy recovery. This is a difficult time, and I want you to know that the Western Cape government is doing everything it can to beat this pandemic,” said Winde.

“My message to people is to take Covid-19 seriously Alan Winde PREMIER