CAPE TOWN -
Health minister Dr Zweli Mkhize published a new directive detailing the updated rules for self-isolation and quarantine which South Africans should follow.
“The presence of detectable virus when testing does not necessarily imply infectiousness. It has been proven that in mild cases, virus cultures are generally only positive for 8-9 days after symptom onset,” said Mkhize.
“The duration of infectiousness in patients with severe disease is less well established. In general, patients with severe disease may continue to shed the virus at higher levels for longer periods than patients with mild disease.”
For those who will be in self-isolation, the rules include:
A separate well-ventilated bedroom with a bathroom and toilet, or a residence that is not shared;
Meals should be served in the room in disposable utensils or utensils that are separate and are washed properly if there are persons who are not subject to quarantine;
Support from friends or family can facilitate the drop off of food and medicine at the gate;
A thermometer that will allow the person to measure their temperature daily;
Access to the internet and a phone that allows the daily reporting of symptoms;
A contact number where he or she can be reached during the period of self – quarantine or self -isolation.
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