Community members will be tested only if they have been screened and meet the criteria for testing – having a cough, a sore throat, fever or difficulty breathing.
If you would like to be screened for the coronavirus, you can: . Use our online screening tool www.westerncape.gov.za/department-of-health/risk-assessment-covid-19 – if the results of the self-assessment test indicate you may be at risk of Covid-19, then please self-isolate and contact your nearest health facility to arrange testing.. Call the provincial hotline on 021 928 4102 – Should you meet the criteria, you will be asked to make contact with your nearest facility to arrange testing.. Call Wesfleur Hospital and you will be referred to a consultant for screening – if you meet the criteria you will be advised when to come in for the test.
Before you enter the facility alert staff that you are concerned you have Covid-19. Expect to be asked to put on a face mask. You will be asked to wait separately from other patients until a health worker can help you. Should you develop difficulty breathing seek help urgently. If possible, call ahead to your local health facility to inform them you are en route.
What should you do if you are tested positive for Covid-19?
If you have tested positive you need to self-isolate. After being infected with Covid-19 it can take up to 14 days to develop symptoms. During this period, the virus may be transmitted to others. People who have symptoms of Covid-19, or who have had close contact with someone with Covid-19, should be isolated for 14 days to prevent its possible spread to others. If you cannot isolate at home you will be referred to a state isolation facility.
What should your family and friends do if you are positive?
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive you are advised to quarantine for 14 days. Quarantine means you have no symptoms, but will isolate because you have had close contact with someone with Covid-19. If you develop symptoms while in quarantine you will be tested. If you cannot quarantine at home, government will refer you to a safe facility that has been identified and equipped for quarantine.
The most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones is to stay at home. Abiding by the lockdown regulations is of utmost importance, as it prevents the spread of the virus, ensures our health systems are not overwhelmed, and it protects the sick, the elderly and the vulnerable. In short, staying at home will save lives.
