Faizel Patel – 06/07/2020
President Cyril Ramaphosa says keeping our distance from our elderly parents and grandparents at this time could be saving their lives.
Ramaphosa was addressing the nation in his weekly newsletter “From the Desk of the President.”
The president says those fortunate enough to have an elderly parent or grandparent still alive, not being able to spend time with them has been one of the most difficult parts of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Ramaphosa says for millions of senior citizens, social activities like meeting friends and family and attending religious services are the mainstay of their lives.
“Coronavirus can infect anyone, but older people are among those at highest risk of getting severely ill and possibly dying. Sadly, there have been a number of coronavirus outbreaks at old age homes and care centres, resulting in a number of deaths.”
Ramaphosa says until the we overcome this pandemic, we all have to play it safe, for ourselves and those around us.
“Difficult though it may be, we should not expose our elderly mothers and fathers to the virus through social visits. Let us keep in touch with them by phone or video messaging. If they live with us, let us ensure we observe proper hygiene at all times by washing and sanitising our hands.”
Ramaphosa says people with underlying medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension should be extra cautious and should observe social distancing, stay home if possible and stay away from crowded places.
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