By Kaya 959 Reporter
The Presidency has announced that Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, has tested positive for COVID-19.
Mantashe tested positive on Saturday “after experiencing mild symptoms”.
“Minister Mantashe is in good spirits and he is currently in self-isolation,” the Presidency said in a statement.
Mantashe contracted the virus less than a week after President Cyril Ramaphosa also tested positive.
“The President, who is fully vaccinated, is in self-isolation in Cape Town and has delegated all responsibilities to Deputy President David Mabuza for the next week,” the Presidency said at the time.
Officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant against exposure.
“Government urges all South Africans to vaccinate and remain disciplined in observing all COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure a safe and joyful festive season with family and friends.”
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COVID-19 infections rise
South Africa reported 15,465 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, December 19.
“As of today, the cumulative number of #COVID19 cases identified in SA is 3 308 074… The cumulative number of recoveries now stands at 3 010 513 with a recovery rate of 91.0%,” the health department revealed.
According to the NICD, the majority of the news cases were recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (27%). Gauteng accounted for 23% of the new infections, followed by the Western Cape with 18%.
The NICD says there has also been an increase of 87hospital admissions in the past 24 hours.
As of today the cumulative number of #COVID19 cases identified in SA is 3 308 074 with 15 465 new cases reported. Today 3 deaths have been reported bringing the total to 90 348 deaths. The cumulative number of recoveries now stand at 3 010 513 with a recovery rate of 91.0% pic.twitter.com/pPAJYl5VN2
— National Department of Health (@HealthZA) December 19, 2021
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