Cape Town - The implementation of social distancing at health facilities to combat the spread of Covid-19 has caused a stampede and long lines at certain buildings, while some people are being allowed inside in smaller numbers.
Western Cape government health communications officer Monique Johnstone said healthcare facilities have implemented social distancing measures, according to the directives handed down by the president.
“We are taking in small groups at a time and providing a service, then the next group will be allowed inside.
"We need people to start taking social distancing seriously in order to try and prevent spreading the coronavirus, not just healthcare facilities, but anywhere.”
Johnstone added that people were
being screened for Covid-19 before
entering these facilities and practising
social distancing throughout.
Patients in the waiting room at
the Nyanga Community Health Clinic
could be seen seated a few meters apart
and several patients stood waiting outside the Mitchells Plain Day Hospital on Monday, waiting to be screened.
Deputy director of communications Mark van der Heever said thousands of people visited health-care
facilities on a daily basis.
He added that unless people
required emergency medical treatment, they should stay at home and
seek advice first if unsure.
Those with flu-like symptoms,
including a cough and fever, should
call the provincial coronavirus hotline
on 021 928 4102 for advice, and unless
advised to, they should not go to a
clinic or hospital.
Numerous resources have been made available to the public regarding Covid-19. These include:
The NICD Hotline on 0800 029 999 operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day
The Western Cape Provincial Government Hotline on 021 928 4102
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019