ICYMI | A Summary of Cyril Ramaphosa’s National COVID-19 address

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the Coronavirus outbreak in South Africa as a “National Disaster” yesterday evening, and announced the contingency plans government has taken against the spread of the coronavirus, as well as the suggested precautions that the public should follow.

Here is a 10 point summary of Cyril Ramaphosa’s address:

• There are now 61 confirmed cases of the virus in SA.
• The president declared the pandemic a state of disaster in terms of the Disaster Management Act.
• Government has implemented travel bans to a number of countries including Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China. Travel bans on these countries will come into effect from 18 March 2020. He also said local travels must only be necessary. So hold that thought on that baecation to Durban for now.
• Gatherings of more than 100 people are prohibited. Large events and celebrations are cancelled. Basically, di nice times are on hold.
• Schools closed from Wednesday 18 March until after the Easter weekend. If you are a student, please use this break wisely.
• Government will be working closely with universities, colleges etc. to increase hygiene and put other appropriate contingency plans in place.
• Businesses are called upon to take measures to intensify hygiene control. So yes, you need to iron your work shirts for the week ahead as you may be going to work.
• Surveillance and testing systems are being strengthened at hospitals.
• The government will be partnering with the private sector to develop a tracing, tracking and monitoring system for all those affected by the coronavirus.
• Ramaphosa calls on South Africans to “change their behaviour” and take various personal measures such as washing your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, use hand sanitiser, and introduce elbow greetings when greeting. And by elbow greeting, he means this:

It’s a little H for Hectic in the country right now but it’s nothing we can’t handle, right? If you wish to be updated on all things Miss Coco V, add the Coronavirus hotline on WhatsApp with the number (060) 012 – 3456.

Stay safe and sanitised!