Update 62: Our collective responsibility

19 January 2021 - VCO

Update on the latest Covid-19 testing and infection of staff and students.

South Africa is in the midst of a second wave of the coronavirus and this is impacting on our University community. We have noted a significant increase in the number of staff and students who have reported testing positive in the last ten days, as reflected in the table below.

Staff and Student COVID-19 Infection Summary

Twenty staff members (including those working from home) and 11 students reported testing positive for COVID-19. The affected staff members and students are self-isolating in line with national directives and University protocols.

The data provided in the table is based on the number of infections reported to the Campus Health and Wellness Centre and the Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Management Office. 

We appeal to you to please do the following:

• Complete the screening form on the Wits Logbox App every day. Show your clearance note to the security officers before entering campus.
• Wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose at all times.

• Stay at least 1.5 metres from anyone else.
• Wash your hands regularly (for at least 20 seconds with soap and water) and dry them properly OR sanitise your hands regularly.

Find out more about keeping safe on the Wits COVID-19 Resources page.

Mental Health and Wellness

Your overall personal wellness continues to be a priority. If you, or anyone you know is in need of counselling, please make use of the services offered by the University.

Students can reach out to CCDU via info.ccdu@wits.ac.za or call the Wits Student Crisis Line on 0800111331 (24/7 toll free).

Staff members can make use of Kaelo’s counselling services (at no cost to staff) by calling 0861635766, by dialling *134*928, by sending a ‘Please call me’ to 0726205699, or by emailing asknelson@kaelo.co.za.

Our Collective Responsibility

In order to protect our entire community, we appeal to all staff and students, out of mutual respect for one another, and the collective health and safety of our community, to abide by all COVID-19 protocols, rules and policies (and encourage others to do the same). It is up to us to care for one another and to act responsibly, in order to protect ourselves and those in our community who may be more vulnerable.