South Africa has recorded its first covid-19 related deaths, in the Western Cape.
Premier Alan Winde confirmed the patients, who are both woman aged 28 and 48-years, died early on Friday morning.
“Today, we woke up to the sad news that we, too, have seen our first casualties. A 28-year-old woman and 48-year-old woman both passed away this morning,” said Winde.
Winde says the 48-year-old woman’s condition worsened while she was in intensive care and the 28-year-old died a day after she was admitted to hospital.
“The 48-year-old woman’s condition worsened while in ICU, and she passed away this morning.
"The 28 year-old was admitted to hospital yesterday and received emergency healthcare. She also passed away this morning.
“The clinical picture is consistent with COVID-19 but we are awaiting the test results to confirm this,” he said.
“We mourn this loss as a province and as a country. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased. I would like to ask all our residents to join me in a moment of silence at midday today, as we mark the loss, and celebrate their lives.”