Rachel Kolisi shares update on her family’s COVID-19 battle

Rachel Kolisi, wife of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, recently said that two more family members have tested positive for COVID-19 as she remains in isolation after contracting the virus.

Three members of the Kolisi family diagnosed with COVID-19

After Rachel took to Instagram in December to post a heartfelt message describing not only her symptoms but asking everyone to take extra precaution with the virus currently in its ‘second wave’ around the country, she took to social media once again to share an update.

She said that their youngest daughter Keziah and Siya’s sister Liphelo have also been infected by the virus. Rachel said that Keziah isn’t showing any symptoms while Liphelo is battling “full-on adult symptoms”.

“We tested the whole family to make sure everyone was healthy and safe. Liphelo, 13, and Keziah, 3, tested positive. The virus — I don’t know what strain of it — but COVID is definitely affecting the kids too. Liphelo has full-on adult symptoms and it’s been rough. Keziah, praise the Lord, didn’t have any symptoms at all and is her usual happy self.”

She also said they were advised that children younger than 13 years can’t spread the virus.

“Just a reminder I’m not a COVID expert I’m simply sharing my experience to keep awareness out there. I’m going to set up more live chats with medical professionals and their experiences with COVID and will keep you posted on these in my stories.”

First updates and a heartfelt message

Rachel previously made special mention of the health care workers working tirelessly in the fight against the virus. She also drew attention to the current number of active cases in South Africa which are spiralling out of control.

“It’s been so rough and scary at times specially when you have small kids who don’t understand why they can’t touch you. My heart breaks for those in hospital having to fight this alone, not knowing if they’ll see their loved ones again. Equally my heart breaks for the healthcare workers working tirelessly and understaffed while others are not taking the safety precautions seriously at all.”