News24 reports that there has been a significant uptick in Covid-19 infections among health workers in KwaZulu-Natal, Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu indicated on Sunday.  

"It is with a deep sense of concern that we, indeed, confirm a significant rise in Covid-19 infections among health workers, which has become noticeable in recent weeks," Simelane-Zulu stated.  She added that frontline workers, such as nurses, doctors, as well as allied health workers, administrative clerks, and general orderlies, were the most affected.  Simelane-Zulu gave a breakdown of numbers, stating that at Addington Hospital, 38 staff members had tested positive since the start of December:  "This includes five doctors, 11 nursing staff, one allied worker and 21 support staff members.  However, Addington Hospital continues to function, and is accepting all walk-in patients. Only those who are picked up by ambulance are being diverted to Prince Mshiyeni Memorial and King Edward VIII hospitals."  Simelane-Zulu said at RK Khan Hospital in Chatsworth, 23 staff had tested positive, which included seven nurses, 10 doctors, two radiologists, three clerks and one general orderly.  "Contrary to unfounded reports, RK Khan Hospital is also open and rendering healthcare services, while following strict Covid-19 infection prevention and control protocols," Simelane-Zulu clarified.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Kaveel Singh at News24

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