President Cyril Ramaphosa has tested positive for COVID-19 and he is receiving treatment for mild symptoms.
The Presidency released a statement on Sunday evening noting how the President started feeling unwell after leaving the State Memorial Service in honour of former Deputy President FW de Klerk, in Cape Town, on Sunday.
Ramaphosa is in self-isolation in Cape Town and he has delegated all responsibilities to Deputy President David Mabuza for the next week.
He is said to be in good spirits but is being monitored by the South African Military Health Service of the National Defence Force.
President @CyrilRamaphosa tests positive for COVID-19 https://t.co/GxunjqSePr
— Presidency | South Africa ?? (@PresidencyZA) December 12, 2021
Previous COVID-19 tests
On his recent visit to four West African states, Ramaphosa and the South African delegation were tested for COVID-19 in all countries.
The President and the delegation returned to South Africa from the Republic of Senegal on Wednesday, after obtaining negative test results. Ramaphosa also tested negative on his return to Johannesburg on 8 December.
Vaccination remains the best protection: Ramaphosa
Sunday’s proceedings in Cape Town were undertaken in compliance with health regulations pertaining to hand hygiene, the wearing of face masks and social distancing.
Ramaphosa, who is fully vaccinated, says his own infection serves as a caution to all people in the country to be vaccinated and remain vigilant against exposure.
“Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and hospitalisation.”
People who have had contact with the President on Sunday are advised to watch for symptoms or to have themselves tested.
INFOGRAPHIC: SA’s COVID-19 Statistics:
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