Safety MEC Albert Fritz self-isolating after testing positive for COVID-19

Safety MEC Albert Fritz confirmed on Friday 27 November that he tested positive for COVID-19. He and members of his staff “have immediately begun self-isolating”.

Fritz explained that he had previously self-quarantined “as a precaution”. He trusts that, following his diagnosis on Friday, self-quarantining is the “surest way to stop the spread” of COVID-19.

COVID-19 resurgence in Western Cape

Going forward, Fritz said he will ensure that all his meetings are held virtually, and “where it is possible, [he] will continue to focus on recovering safely at home”.

He also reminded residents in the Western Cape that the province is experiencing a resurgence in COVID-19 cases and urged everyone to adhere to safety protocols.

“More than ever, we must continue to wash our hands, wear our masks correctly and maintain a safe social distance”.

Fritz’s diagnosis follows after new hotspots were identified in the Western Cape region, mainly in the Garden Route and Capet Town. In addition, new cases increased by 73% this week.

Western Cape COVID-19 statistics

Seven deaths were recorded in the province, now bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to 4 601. Areas on alert include Mitchell’s Plain, Khayelitsha, the southern sub-districts, and the Tygerberg region.

As of 13:00 on Friday, 27 November 2020, the Western Cape had 8 438 active COVID-19 cases. More than 115 000 residents had recovered, and 509 new cases were identified during the last 24 hours.

WC Premier Alan Winde said there is a “very concerning increase in the numbers of people being hospitalised. The team will be “exploring practical ways in which we can slow and manage the spread of infections”.

“The Western Cape Government is working hard to ensure that our economy is not further impacted and in order to do that, we need all residents to take responsibility for their actions and play their part. You can do this through simple infection prevention protocols such as wearing your mask, social distancing and hand hygiene and by avoiding crowded places, confined spaces and close contact”.

Global COVID-19 updates

On Saturday 28 November 2020, the global coronavirus caseload stood at 62 109 453 confirmed cases worldwide, along with 1 451 753 deaths and 42 899 940 recoveries.

There are currently infected 17 757 760 persons, of which 17 652 497 have a mild infection and 105 263 are critical. The United States of America has 13 454 346 confirmed cases, 271 029 deaths and 7 945 585 recoveries.

The five hardest-hit countries are currently the United States of America, followed by India (9 351 346), Brazil (3 238 350), Russia (2 242 633) and France (2 163 119).

South Africa dropped down 16th place on the list, currently with a caseload of 781 961, as well as 21 378 deaths and 722 876 recoveries. As a country, we have 37 687 active cases, of which 546 are critical.