THE total number of confirmed Covid-19 infections in the Kouga region is expected to reach 300 this week.
Kouga Executive Mayor, Horatio Hendricks, said the EMS ambulance bases at Humansdorp, Kareedouw and Joubertina were among the latest services to be disrupted by the coronavirus.
“Five staff members at the Humansdorp base have tested positive for Covid-19,” he said.
“All three bases have been closed temporarily and are being decontaminated. This includes the ambulances.
“Further staff test results are being awaited, following which a decision will be made regarding the re-opening of the bases.”
According to a report tabled to the Kouga Covid-19 Joint Operations Committee (JOC), arrangements are in place for private ambulance services to transport patients in the interim.
The Department of Health reported at the JOC that a total of 294 Covid-19 cases had thus far been confirmed for Kouga.
Of these, 223 cases are still active while 58 recoveries and three deaths have been recorded.
The results per town are still being captured and will be released later this week, the Department said.
They said patients not in need of hospitalisation, but unable to self-quarantine were being accommodated at quarantine sites, including, the Humansdorp Boutique Hotel, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium and The Kraal Addo.
Hendricks said the rising numbers in the Gamtoos Valley area, most notably Loerie, were of great concern.
“We plead with residents to adhere to the safety precautions and to avoid contact with other people.
“It is up to each one of us to curb the spread of Covid-19 and keep our families and communities safe.
“Avoid going out but, if you have to, don’t stop to catch up with friends along the way. You risk either spreading the virus or contracting it and taking it back home with you.
“Maintain social distancing, wear a mask when in public, wash your hands regularly and do not touch your face with unwashed hands as that is one of way the virus gains entry to your body.”
Residents with medical emergencies can phone the following numbers should they require an ambulance:
- Humansdorp Hospital: 042 200 4200
- From a landline: 0800 032 364
- From a cell phone: 112
