Markus Kämpf of Simbithi writes:
Like most people, we were thrilled to hear that the borders would be re-opening.
It seemed to be another small step on the way out of our Orwellian society.
It turns out to be little more than an illusion though.
We have been told that prior to being permitted to board an international flight anywhere in the world, a negative Covid-19 test result, not older than 72 hours will have to be presented.
Fair enough, but this obviously turns everything into something of a roulette.
How is anybody supposed to be able to plan a holiday abroad with hotel bookings etc, well knowing that they may not be permitted to board the plane, if they portray any flu like symptoms?
Not knowing whether you will then be able to board the plane in order to come home at the end of the holiday, is another issue.
In spite of these risk factors, I suppose South Africa wouldn’t be South Africa if additional local problems didn’t exist.
Like where do you go for a Covid-19 test?
Dis-Chem no longer does Covid-19 tests.
Pathcare at the Well in Ballito will do the test, but only if you have a referral letter from a general practitioner.
Lancet Laboratories at the Netcare Alberlito Hospital also does tests, but only when their tent is up.
If their tent is down, you have to make an appointment at the Victoria Hospital in Tongaat.
My question is this: If South Africa is serious about opening its borders, shouldn’t there be quick, hassle free Covid-19 testing facilities available?
Or are we seriously expecting visitors from overseas to first look for a general practitioner, in order to receive a referral letter so that they can be tested, hoping that they will then be allowed to leave the country again?
It would probably be easier to just keep the borders closed.
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