Covid-19 claims life of NHLS employee
A worker from the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) has died after testing positive for Covid-19 a few weeks ago.
South Africa's confirmed cases now stand at 27 403 with an additional 1472 cases announced over the last 24-hour period.
An additional 25 deaths have been recorded, bringing the number of deaths to 577.
Covid-19 claims life of NHLS employee by Sine Madolo on Scribd
Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize confirmed that there is a backlog of about 100 thousand tests that need to be processed.
"This is due to the lack of sufficient data recorded and this requires the NICD to verify each test prior to allocating it to the province.
"The acting director-general was indeed correct when he stated that the backlog was around 80 000.
"This is to confirm that the exact figure of specimens that have not been processed is 96 480 as of 25 May 2020," Mkhize said.
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Minister Mkhize sent his condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
"We are deeply saddened by this news and wish to send words of comfort to her family and thank them for having allowed their loved one to serve the country during this difficult time.
“We also take this opportunity to encourage other NHLS employees,” said Mkhize.
“We understand that this tragedy will certainly test you. But we wish to assure you of our commitment to continue taking the necessary measures to protect you while you perform your duties".
With the country experiencing a shortage of testing kits, priority is being given to those who are in hospital or being treated by medical professionals