Media Release: Weekly update on the Coronavirus by the Garden Route District Municipality Command Centre

For Immediate Release
24 May 2020

The Garden Route has recorded three (3) COVID-19 deaths to date. We share our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and keep them in our prayers. Since 17 May 2020, the Garden Route has recorded 60 new positive COVID-19 cases – a total of 72 Garden Routers have now recovered from the virus.

HEALTH CLUSTER

The district has seen a sharp increase in the total number of positive COVID-19 cases over the past week. Most of the latest reported cases have been asymptomatic. This is a clear indication that there could be many more people who are already COVID-19 positive, but do not experience any symptoms. Rumours doing the rounds of parts of the Garden Route being identified as a hotspot for the Coronavirus are not true. According to the data provided to the Garden Route District Command Centre, there are only five (5) hotspots in the Western Cape and these fall outside the Garden Route district.

As at 26 May 2020, the stats are:

Most people who contract COVID-19 will not require hospitalisation, which is evidenced by the fact that nearly half the District’s total caseload has now recovered. However, we still need every resident to play their part to reduce infections and more specifically, to protect the vulnerable who are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill.

This requires us to take stock of our behaviour and look at ways in which we can make changes to help flatten the curve and reduce the risk of transmission. Stay home as much as possible, especially if you are over 60 or have an underlying illness. When leaving home, hygiene measures such as washing or sanitising your hands, not touching your face and keeping your distance from other people are highly important. Wear a clean cloth mask should not replace these behaviours but should be used together for maximum effectiveness.

SOCIAL RELIEF CLUSTER

Social Relief Cluster: Department Social Development (DSD)

To date more than 50 000 food parcels have been delivered all over the Western Cape. To date 5 483 food parcels have been approved for people living in the Garden Route.

Social Relief cluster: SASSA

Approximately 4,7 million people all over South Africa have applied for the special R350 relief fund. People between the ages of 18 and 59 are allowed to apply for the grant, while people who are 60 and over need to apply for an Old Age Grant. Those under the age of 18 qualify for a Child Support Grant.

BUSINESS, ECONOMY AND TOURISM (BET) CLUSTER

BET: WESGRO

WESGRO has created a digital marketplace link for PPE on the www.supportbusiness.co.za website where businesses can list and sell their products. To date, 20 Garden Route businesses have already signed up.

BET: Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT)

DEDAT is going to procure PPE toolkits for informal traders/small businesses and these kits will include hand sanitizer, gloves, masks, COVID-19 awareness brochures and masks. DEDAT is currently focusing on hotspot management in the metropolitan area but will eventually expand their operations to the Garden Route. The Relief Impact survey closed on 22 May 2020 and results will be made available soon.

BET: Department of Labour

To date nearly R750 million have been paid towards COVID-19. Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme countrywide, has benefited 149 263 workers representing 9 362 employers. Total amount paid out since April 16, 2020 has now topped R14 billion (R14 079 099 409.20). This is over and above ordinary UIF payment benefits which now stand at R1 849 992 773.21.

Given all required information and documentation, the fund is now paying out at best 24 hours after the claim is submitted, at worst 48 hours after claim was submitted.

Important contact details:
• UIF payment follow-ups can be done on toll free number 0800 030 007
• Website: www.uifecc.labour.gov.za/covid19

BET: Department of Agriculture

Disaster Fund
The Disaster Fund application process has been concluded. Vouchers will soon be issued to successful applicants.

Seedling Toolkits
The department is in the process of making available seedling toolkits and will engage with municipalities in this regard. Poverty stricken areas will be the main focus point.