Local emergency physician Dr John Welsh of Middok 24/7 warns that it could be within days if residents don’t adhere to the nationwide lockdown regulations.

“Whether it’s one or 10 cases, the virus is in Mpumalanga, it is here,” Dr Welsh told www.mobserver.co.za.

On Monday Dr Welsh took www.mobserver.co.za on a tour of Life Midmed’s Covid-19 triage areas, it has to be said, the hospital is prepared for the worst.
Senior nurse Mariska van Niekerk is the unit manager of Life Midmed’s quarantine quarters.

Intense training has been undertaken in the past two weeks to ensure medical personnel can handle an influx of sick patients.

Only critically ill patients will be quarantined, while those with moderate symptoms will be allowed to self-quarantine at home.
Pharmacies will deliver the necessary medicines to infected residents in home quarantine.

Dr Welsh shared the following basics on the virus:

• The hospitals won’t be able to handle the pandemic if residents flout the lockdown regulations.

• Masks are in short supply and won’t protect you from infection. Infected residents should, however, wear them to avoid spreading the infection.

• Always maintain a two-metre social distance from others.

• Gloves, especially re-worn gloves, are unhygienic. Rather wash your hands regularly.

• Residents must also keep in mind that doctors must continue to treat other illnesses and emergencies.

• “Stay at home!” Dr Welsh says.