WC shows under 10% test positivity rate

The Western Cape currently shows a Covid-19 test positivity rate of below 10%, along with a decrease in the demand for testing at public and private laboratories. This means that there are fewer people testing positive for Covid-19 in the province and our efforts to combat the pandemic continue to prove successful as activities safely resume. At the same time, the Western Cape has been able to expand its testing regime to more individuals.

The decline is further reflected in the Hospital Admission Rate which currently stands at under 5%.

MPP Wendy Philander says: “I still urge residents to maintain social distancing and good hygiene, as the Coronavirus remains with us for the foreseeable future. It is important that we get back to work and restore dignity, but it is also vital that we remain vigilant against the virus and to prevent a second wave of infections.

I will submit written parliamentary questions to the provincial Minister of Health regarding the provincial department’s readiness for a possible second wave of infections, as seen in other countries”.

Testing is now available to all individuals who show symptoms of Covid-19, and not only to those who face comorbidities as applicable under the risk adjusted strategy. The expanded testing regime includes tests for healthcare workers, those who have previously tested for Covid-19 and those awaiting operations.

MPP Wendy Philander: ”As of last week, the rate of cases in the country as a whole declined from approximately 10 000 to 1 000 new cases per day. This means that hospitals are able to recalibrate elective surgeries and clinal services. The provincial department of Health indicated that they have scaled up procedures along with prioritising urgent operations whilst remaining vigilant to manage Covid-19 at public health facilities.

These corrective measures also ask of members of the public to embrace behavioural change and to continue practising good hygiene and health practices”.

The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape remains committed to use and support all possible measures to keep residents safe, healthy, and informed.