Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, announced today [April 10] that the total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus has risen to 2003. The number of deaths have also increased to 24.

Here is a breakdown of the statistics:

The Department of Health is reiterating the importance of social distancing at this time. “Social distancing must be our new culture. No hugging, no kissing, no shaking of hands. This new culture will assist in flattening the curve,” they said.

Mkhize went on to thank the health workers and to commend the president on his decision to extend the lockdown. “We want to thank the President, NCC and Minsters. It is important to know there is scientific basis and support for the extension of the lockdown by the President,” he said in a tweet.

“Our health workers are fighting in a heroic way and number of recoveries is 410 people,” said Mkhize.

Last night, the President announced an extension of the 21 day lockdown by an additional 2 weeks.  “The struggle against the coronavirus is far from over. We cannot relax. We cannot be complacent,” he said in his address.

Since the beginning of the lockdown, the daily increase in confirmed cases has been about 4%. This is a significant decrease from the 42% daily increase which we experienced prior to the lockdown. With the extension, the hope is to continue this trend of slowing the spread of the virus.

Picture: Unsplash

 

Article written by

We love this place! Cape Town Etc features news, reviews, entertainment and lifestyle in the Mother City.