204 Covid-19 infections at Eastern Cape school

An alarming 204 learners and hostel assistants have tested positive for Covid-19 at Makaula Senior Secondary School in the Eastern Cape. 

A team of doctors and tracers were deployed to the school by the Eastern Cape Department of Health after cases were detected and confirmed.

The National Association of School Governing Bodies demands the immediate shutdown of schools in the Eastern Cape, following the closure of Makaula Secondary in KwaBhaca.

The department of health said, “Since the reopening of schools three weeks ago, many cases have been picked up in schools as a result of the safety requirements that are being implemented. 

“Schools are urged to follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure appropriate measures are applied to assist all those infected and affected by the virus.”

Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said the cases being reported in schools show that many people already had the virus but they didn’t know until they were screened and identified.

“We will continue to work hard in schools to make sure that we protect our learners, teachers and employees within schools. It is important to work together to ensure that we beat the virus,” she said.

She said the department is working hard to make sure that all schools are Covid-19 compliant before they can receive more learners.

“What is also important is to ensure that even during schools hours and beyond, we stick to the basic requirements of wearing a mask, sanitise, wash hands and keep to physical distancing,” said Motshekga.

She urged members of the community to assist from visiting schools as that also increased the risk for more infections.