Youngsters and mom test positive for Covid-19
Both boys have since recovered from the virus, but Pamela is still unwell and off work this week.
When grade 2 learner, Keandrè Pillay (7) tested positive for Covid-19 in early August, his mother Pamela was shocked at the diagnosis.
“We don’t take him out unnecessarily and take precautions such as sanitising, wearing masks, and not touching surfaces when we do go out. Once the shock wore off, I was scared, as being employed in the health department, I know the harm Covid can cause,” she added.
Keandrè’s symptoms were tiredness, lack of appetite, earache and severe headaches.
Initially Pamela assumed his tiredness was from a tough week and put him to bed. But later she received a call from his school that his teacher had tested positive and he should be isolated and monitored.
However, when his headaches and earache persisted and on advice of their family doctor, he was tested.
The day after Keandrè’s diagnosis, his brother Keonan (13), a grade 8 learner started showing symptoms, and later Pamela as well. They both tested positive, however the boys’ father Kenny tested negative.
Both boys have since recovered from the virus, but Pamela is still unwell and off work this week.
The Pillays have faced Covid as any other sickness by being positive. “We took our vitamins, medication, steamed and ate healthy. We had plenty of rest, binged on TV shows and played games. The children also continued with school work, so that they didn’t fall behind.”
Pamela believes the Department of Basic Education should consider alternate days of attendance for learners, as most schools will not be able to comply with the 1.5 metre social distance.
Also, other learners in Keandrè’s class also tested positive. “His school is excellent when it comes to social distancing and sanitising. They do a great job about teaching the children about Covid,” she said.
Earlier this week KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala stated that the province was advised by medical experts that it was in the third wave of Covid-19. At the same time, he specifically noted an increase in cluster cases, with schools emerging as the biggest contributor.
“More than 120 schools have reported clusters in their school settings; and more than 800 learners and educators have been affected. Learners make up at least 95% of this number, while educators account for the remaining 5%,”added the premier.
Pamela and Kenny are nervous about their children’s return to school. “We have to allow them to go back as education is important and they have to interact with children in their own age group. They are missing out on so much, swimming galas, school concerts and awards, a bit of normal will do them good.”
Pamela also urged the community that Covid is not something to be kept secret. “Tell people if you test positive, you could save a life.”
She thanked family, friends and neighbours for their care, the cooked meals, medication and treats for the children during their recovery.
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