Breaking: Gauteng Premier David Makhura tests positive for COVID-19

Gauteng Premier David Makhura, on Friday 10 July, released a statement announcing that he has received a positive COVID-19 test result. 

“Today, Friday 10 July 2020, I received my test results confirming that I have tested positive for COVID-19. I am now in self-isolation, in line with the WHO protocols and will work from home over the next 14 days whilst monitoring my health,” he said. 

This comes just after Gauteng has been dubbed the COVID-19 epicentre of the country. The province, as of Thursday 9 July, has 81 546 positive cases and has reported 515 deaths and 23 804 recoveries. 

DAVID MAKHURA TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 

According to the premier, he experienced some mild symptoms on Wednesday 8 July. On Thursday 9 July, he decided to self-quarantine and take a test for COVID-19 as a precautionary measure. 

“Today, Friday 10 July 2020, I received my test results confirming that I have tested positive for COVID-19,” he said. 

In line with World Health Organisation (WHO) protocols, Makhura will be in self-isolation for the next 14 days and will work from home. 

“Given the fact that I only have mild symptoms, I will continue to ensure that the Provincial Executive Council and Provincial coronavirus Command Council respond adequately to weather the storm of the pandemic in order to save more lives,” said Makhura. 

“The MEC’s will later today give a weekly update on COVID-19. The primary focus of our response is to limit the number of infections and save more lives. We must double our efforts because Gauteng is once again the epicentre of COVID-19,” he added.  

Makhura asked that all people in Gauteng continue playing their part in observing the golden rules of washing hands regularly, wearing a mask and practising physical distancing. 

WESTERN CAPE AND NORTH WEST PREMIER ALSO TEST POSITIVE 

Just two days ago on Wednesday 8 July, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde announced that he received a COVID-19 positive test result. 

“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,” said Winde.

The premier is currently in self-isolation and resting on doctor’s orders. 

North West Premier Job Mokgoro is also in self- isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. Mokgoro received his results on Tuesday 7 July after testing the previous day. He was prompted to take the test following the passing of Cogta MEC Mothibi Gordon Kegakilwe.