First local coronavirus transmission, infections up to 17
A 32-year-old Free State man has become the first case of local transmission as another four South Africans tested positive for coronavirus.
The latest numbers were released by the Department of Health on Thursday.
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The Free State man was infected with Covid-19 following contact with a local Chinese businessman.
The Department of Health confirmed that there are now 17 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country.
In a statement, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said all the patients have self-quarantined as they have mild to moderate symptoms.
“Our tracing teams are now making a list and have started contacting individuals that have been identified as these patients’ contacts.
“At this stage, all patients are in self-quarantine and have mild to moderate symptoms. They are also on symptomatic treatment.”
The virus has also spread to two new provinces, Mpumalanga and the Free State.
Latest confirmed cases of #COVID19 in South Africa. pic.twitter.com/hYF7FGe4zE
— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) March 12, 2020