The Premier of Gauteng Province David Makhura revealed Friday that he has tested positive for Covid-19.

After experiencing mild symptoms Wednesday July 8, he subjected himself to the standard testing protocols.

To this end, Makhura released a media statement saying:

“On Thursday 09 July 2020, I decided to self-quarantine and test for COVID-19 as a precautionary measure.  Today, Friday 10 July 2020, I received my test results confirming that I have tested positive for COVID-19.”

As reported here yesterday, the Gauteng Department of Health announced that six (6) officials of its coronavirus war room, including the HOD (Head of Department) Mkhululi Lukhele, tested positive for coronavirus on Thursday, July 9.

The Premier is quarantining himself for the mandatory 14 days and will work from home henceforth.

Meanwhile, seven employees of the Ekurhuleni (one of the municipalities in Gauteng) Mayoral Office tested positive. However, Mzwandile Masina, the Mayor, said his results came out negative. The offices are shut for deep cleaning.

“As you might of heard on the news, 7 staff members in my office have tested positive for COVID-19. My test results returned negative. COVID-19 is real and needs us all to adhere to the lockdown regulations. Wishing them all a speedy recovery. #StayHome #StaySafe“

– Mzwandile Masina @mzwandilemasina 

South Africa is going through a sharp rise in infections and Covid-19-related deaths since the relaxation of government lockdown controls.

By Thursday, 238, 339 coronavirus cases were confirmed and 3, 720 people died and 113, 061 recoveries were reported in the country.

Of the 13, 674 new cases announced yesterday, Gauteng accounts for nearly 50% (6, 531). The main economic hub province currently has the highest number (81, 546 overall, i.e. 34,2%) of coronavirus cases in South Africa. Its total death record stands at 515 (13,84%). There are 23, 804 recovered patients in Gauteng.