Watch: ‘Important to wear our masks’ says health minister in Christmas message [video]

Dr Zweli Mhkize shared his Christmas message in the form of short video clip on social media on 25 December. He wishes all South Africans a festive season and calls on everyone adhere to COVID-19 protocols.

Mkhize also shared five basic COVID-19 prevention measures for those who are staying out over a festive season. Let’s take a look; a refresher never hurt and you could just save a life.

Dr Mkhize’s Christmas message

Adhere to COVID-1 protocols

Dr Mkhize wished all South Africans a very special festive season and a happy new year in his Christmas message. He also emphasised the importance of behavioural changes.

“It’s important for us to wear our masks, it’s important for us to wash our hands, use sanitiser and ensure social distancing to save from getting [a COVID-19 infection]”.

This follows after Deputy President David Mabuza’s Christmas message, in which he called on South Africans to be responsible during the festive period and adhere to the COVID-19 safety measures in place.

The deputy president acknowledged that the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic “has brought about hardship, disruptions and pain in our lives”, and that lockdown shattered the economy.

Five basic COVID-19 prevention measures

Dr Mkhize also shared five basic COVID-19 prevention measures to take note of over the festive season. The first step is to keep your hands clean at all times by regularly washing with soap and water, and using sanitiser.

Secondly, remember to always sanitise your hands before entering dining halls, restaurants or bars. If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue.

We need to cover our face with an elbow and not our hands to reduce the risk of touching our face. Seeing as you won’t be touching your face with your elbow, it’s the option.

If you used a tissue, remember to throw it away in a closed bin. Don’t forget social distancing: maintain at least a one-metre distance from staff or other guests. Lastly, don’t forget to wear your mask!

Watch: Dr Zweli Mkhize’s Christmas messages

Watch: A Christmas message from Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize. #CelebrateSafe pic.twitter.com/LP2djDrAV7

— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) December 25, 2020

Here are five basic #COVID19 prevention measures when staying out this festive season #CelebrateSafe pic.twitter.com/3aHV4EuCPs

— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) December 25, 2020