GEORGE NEWS - The George Hospital’s Virus Testing Unit (VTU) closed on Wednesday 30 September. The unit has been a vital part of the George Regional Hospital’s response to Covid-19 since the inception of the lockdown period.
The total number of people screened at the unit since March is 53 649 of whom 3 140 were tested and 666 tested positive. July saw the highest number of tests conducted (1 064) with 350 positive results.
CEO Michael Vonk thanked everyone who have played a crucial part in the hospital's Covid-19 response. "Through commendable teamwork, so far, we have managed to efficiently contain the Covid pandemic in the Garden Route and George Hospital and successfully treat and discharge many patients.
The past few weeks have seen a steady decrease in the number of infections as well as the demand for Coronavirus (Covid-19) testing. However, we are aware of a potential ‘second wave’, which we will address as the time comes," said Vonk.
As of 1 October, screening of the public who visit the hospital is taking place at Entrance 1 (Emergency Centre Minors/ Day Ward entrance) and Entrance 4 (main entrance). At each entrance there will be different screening times that apply, which are as follows:
Entrance 1: 24-hour screening and access
Entrance 4: Mondays to Fridays from 07:00 to 16:00
All persons entering the hospital will still need to adhere to screening, hand sanitising and face mask wearing.
Nadia Ferreira, district spokesperson for the Western Cape Health Department says under Lockdown Level 1 regulations, no visiting of patients in the hospital is allowed. "However, one birth partner will be allowed during delivery and will be allowed a one-hour visit post-delivery.
"Parcels can now be delivered and can be dropped off at the specific department.
"George Hospital Outpatient Department will continue to function with reduced patient slots and the day theatre will continue to function as a Covid ward. Members of the public are urged to maintain social distancing at all times within the hospital and leave the building as soon as possible to avoid crowding," said Ferreira.
George sub-district services
As of 1 October the George sub-district testing sites will be open as follows:
* Conville Community Day Centre (CDC), Pacaltsdorp Clinic and Touwsranten Clinic testing sites will remain open from 07:30 to 14:00.
* Blanco Clinic: Patients who meet the criteria will be sent to George Regional Hospital for Covid testing.
* Thembalethu Community Day Centre (CDC) testing site will move to the staff area in the building and will remain open from 07:30 to 14:00.
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