Department of Health conducts free tests for Alberton community
Community members and shoppers were thrilled to receive free testing services at Alberton Mall on February 23.
This was through a campaign primarily coordinated by the Department of Health and jointly with the City of Ekurhuleni.
The department also partnered with National Health Laboratory Service, Aurum Institute, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and numerous NPOs.
In a mission to curb the spread of Covid-19, customers at the shopping centre were privileged to receive these free tests. They received check-up tests such as Covid-19 testing, HIV testing, high blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
According to Muntu Ngema of the Department of Health, the need to visit the community was to assist individuals who could not afford to do private check-ups.
“We were putting out a call to the community to visit us and receive free check-ups. We mainly visit areas such as Germiston, Alberton, Boksburg and surrounding townships. However, we mostly visit hot spots, areas that have a rising number of cases,” he said.
During the day’s proceedings, while observing health protocols, those who came through queued up and were freely assisted by the officials.
Pensioner Herbert Vermeulen, who was glad to receive the services, thanked the officials for their generous assistance.
“This is pleasing, having to receive free services from the government. I hope it will not be for the last time. We deserve to receive services like these as pensioners, especially after having to pay tax for all these years,” he said.
Ward 106 councillor alderman Bruna Haipel and Alberton Mall’s building manager, Rosta Tunce, gladly welcomed the services offered on the day.
