Health allocates R5.5bn to fight Covid-19
The Department of Health has earmarked R5.5 billion in its 2020/21 budget to fight Covid-19.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize tabled the department’s adjusted budget in a virtual sitting of Parliament on Thursday.
"We are also mindful that, while we focus on this fight against COVID-19, we have a responsibility to ensure the gains made with our HIV, TB, and other programs are sustained regardless of the Covid-19 pandemic," he told MPs.
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"It, therefore, gives me pleasure to table the new baseline budget for 2020/ 20201, based on adjustments, R58.4 billion, with a total allocation of R5.5 billion, earmarked for Covid-19. The reprioritisation focal areas include our most urgent and pressing needs in the midst of a surge in Covid-19 cases.”
He said several studies and clinical trials are underway that aim to identify technology that can prevent Covid-19.
"Other studies underway include the establishment of a pregnancy register to evaluate potential harm to pregnant women and/or their babies caused by Covid-19 infection, and a number of qualitative studies exploring the socio-psychological impacts of Covid-19 infection and of the pandemic.”
He said the improvement of health facilities to deal with the current surge in cases is ongoing.