National State of Disaster declared by President Cyril Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the Nation on Sunday evening, March 15 and declared a National State of Disaster as 61 people tested positive for the Coronavirus.

These were the highlights from the address.

Travel ban from foreign nationals from high risk countries from March 18.

SA citizens advised to refrain from travel to or through high risk countries effective immediately.

SA citizens returning from high risk countries will have testing and self isolation.

All foriegn nationals having arrived into the country since mid February from high risk areas must be tested.

All spheres of government must not take non essential travel.

Gathering of more than 100 people prohibited.

Schools closed from March 18 until after the “easter” weekend break.

Visits to all correctional facilities canceled for the next 30 days.

All businesses must ensure all measures taken to intensify hygiene control.

All shopping centres must ensure all measures taken to intensify hygiene control.

Capacity of health centers being increased nationally.

Call for all to wash hands for 20 seconds.

Call for all to sneeze with a closed hand into a tissue of elbow.

Call for all to avoid close contact with those who have flu like symptoms.

Call for all to practice the “elbow” greeting and not shake hands.

National command council has been established, meeting three times a week, chaired by the president.

This virus will have significant and drastic effect on our economy.

Cabinet is finalizing a package of varying fiscal measures for business labour etc.

We must stop spreading fake and fear promoting news

Swift, purposeful, and collective action required.

Ramaphosa declares national disaster as Covid-19 cases rise to 61, and SA heads for lockdown

SA hotline set up for COVID-19