President Cyril Ramaphosa announced yesterday he directed the repatriation of South African citizens from Wuhan city in Hubei province, China. Ramaphosa added his cabinet made this decision after considering the circumstances and following several requests from the families of South Africans in the city. OFM News earlier reported 62 students from the Free State are stranded in Hubei province.

During a meeting with their parents in Bloemfontein, Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela assured them that the students - the majority of which are on lock-down - are well taken care of, even though they are forced to be isolated and stay in their dorms. 

Free State Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi says his department is ready for when any of the repatriated citizens head towards the province. He says his department would be central to the planning process – which includes a quarantine process for about 21 days.

Earlier media reports indicated that the Tempe Army Base was under consideration for the quarantine and, although Ramaphosa did not confirm that, he indicated the Departments of Health and Defence will deploy healthcare personnel and supporting staff to provide assistance during the processes.

The president also assured South Africans that none of those earmarked for repatriation has been diagnosed with the virus nor have they exhibited any symptoms thereof. 

The latest media reports indicate that 2 858 people have died out of more than 83 000 confirmed cases, while more than 36 000 have recovered from the disease.

OFM News