Coronavirus: Ramaphosa orders evacuation of over 100 SA citizens in Wuhan City
The government plans on repatriating more than 100 South Africans from Wuhan - the Chinese city at the center of the coronavirus outbreak.
Cabinet decided to help, after several requests from the families of people who've been under lockdown for weeks because of the deadly outbreak. Of the 199 South Africans living there - 132 of them want to come home.
A spokesperson for the President, Khusela Diko says they face another few weeks of quarantine when they're flown into the country:
"None of these individuals have been diagnosed with the Corona Virus. They have also not exhibited any symptoms of the virus. Upon arrival in South Africa, they will be quarantined for 21 days as an additional precautionary measure." she says.
Diko says Health and Defence officials will assist with the repatriation and quarantine processes. She says they've been in communication with the families of all those affected:
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"The president has reiterated South Africa's confidence in China's ability to control the outbreak of the virus. He's also expressed his gratitude to the people and the government of China for the support and assistance they have lent," she says.
"The Departments of Health and Defence will deploy healthcare personnel and supporting staff to provide assistance during the repatriation and quarantine processes.
"The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will deploy consular services personnel to provide consular assistance. Department of Home Affairs (DHA) will provide immigration services. Department of Social Development (DSD) will offer trauma counselling and support. Further details in this regard will be communicated by the relevant line function ministries," she says.
