Group Wishes South Africa’s Health Minister Speedy Recovery From COVID-19

Posted by African Examiner African News, Featured, Latest Headlines, News, News Across Nigeria, News From The State Tuesday, October 20th, 2020

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – South Africa’s Portfolio Committee on Health has expressed its empathy and wished the Minister of Health, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, and his wife, Dr. May Mkhize, a speedy and a full recovery after they tested positive for COVID-19.

The Committee’s Chairperson, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo who extended the gesture on behalf of other members of the Committee, applauded the efforts of the minister in the fight against COVID-19.

“The Minister has done so much in the fight against COVID-19. I have full confidence that this too shall pass”, he said.

Dr. Dhlomo also called on all South Africans to support government’s call to fight the pandemic and adhere to the safety protocols such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, and washing and sanitising our hands.

The minister and his wife tested for the virus on Saturday after they started showing symptoms.

Dr. Mkhize said he was showing only mild symptoms, but his wife had a cough and was feeling dizzy and extremely exhausted.

“Given her symptoms, the doctors advised that she must be admitted for observation and rehydration”, he said in a statement on Sunday.

He said their contacts, which include a few family members and some members of the health ministry team, have been informed. They have been advised to immediately isolate in their homes, and be tested.

“I am now in quarantine at home, and both my wife and I remain optimistic that we will fully recover from this virus.

“I wish to take this opportunity to urge all South Africans to continue adhering to health protocols. I want to beg that we do not neglect wearing our masks, social distancing, and washing and sanitising our hands”, he cautioned.

The health minister added that the country had made significant strides in its fight against the pandemic.

“Whatever we do and wherever we go, we have to keep in mind that there remains a risk of a second wave. This virus only spreads through movement and contact of people. Therefore, we must all play our part. We must protect ourselves and those we love”, he stressed.

Dr. Mkhize said he will use the quarantine period to rest and recharge because the task to improve the health services of the country, and the lives people post COVID-19, remains of paramount importance.