South Africa carries out over 1M coronavirus tests

By Felix Tih

ANKARA (AA) - South Africa has become the first African country to carry out over 1 million coronavirus tests, according to data from the country's health ministry.

It has done 1,028,399 tests so far with 58,568 confirmed cases, 1,284 deaths and 33,252 recoveries.

The Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces are the country's epicenter of the virus, reporting a high number of cases and deaths daily.

South Africa is also the most affected country in Africa, accounting for 25% of the continent’s total cases.

Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said on Friday COVID-19 special interventions were employed in hotspots at the the districts where cases are rapidly rising.

"The frequent washing of hands and using sanitizer as well as wearing masks, is very important.

"The mask on its own is not adequate to stop contamination. Therefore all these behavioral changes need to be considered too," he added.

Health workers have been significantly affected by the pandemic, with 4,962 health workers infected in 36 countries of Africa since the beginning of the outbreak, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa office.

"South Africa has been the most affected, with 2,084 health workers infected," the WHO noted.

- Other diseases

Mkhize said while focus is on COVID-19, there are also other diseases that must not be neglected. ''The overall health of our people is important."

The health minister said they have launched a Scooter Project in Eastern Cape. "These multi-purpose units are extremely versatile and can transport patients or deliver medication in rural communities."

He added: "10 000 community health workers are available throughout the country for a program to treat people who suffer from diseases like diabetes."