Professor Zeblon Vilakazi on the impact of the third Covid-19 wave
- Professor Zeblon Vilakazi
Gauteng is currently the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, with almost 11 000 new infections reported in the province on Wednesday.
Our healthcare systems are under pressure and our healthcare professionals, including our health sciences faculty, joint staff and senior students are working on the frontline trying to save lives. We recognise your efforts and thank you for your selfless service to humanity.
Similarly, I would like to extend my appreciation to all staff who are working tirelessly to ensure that university operations continue under lockdown level 3, especially as we are in the assessment period. I have advised all Senior Executive members to work with their managers to ensure that rotation systems are put in place as appropriate in their respective units, to ensure that the risk of infection in the workplace is minimised.
We all know someone who has been infected and I would like to extend my very best wishes to every person who is recuperating – may you recover completely, and soon.
Many of us have also lost friends, colleagues, family members and loved ones in recent months. I would like to extend my condolences to all those left behind during this difficult time.
We have all been affected by the pandemic in some way - physically mentally and emotionally. I urge you to seek help and to make use of the services offered through the University if required.
Confidential counselling services are available for students via the Wits Student Crisis Line on 0800111331 (24/7/365 toll free) or through arrangements made via info.ccdu@wits.ac.za.
Staff members can make use of Kaelo’s counselling services at no cost by calling 0861635766, by dialling *134*928, by sending a ‘Please call me’ to 0726205699, or by emailing asknelson@kaelo.co.za.
We can change our immediate future and the trajectory of the coronavirus if we behave responsibly. Please complete the screening app truthfully before entering campus. Wear your mask properly over your mouth and nose. Maintain a safe social distance of 1.5 metres from anyone else. Avoid gatherings, especially indoors – meet outside if you must with your masks on. Ensure that rooms are well ventilated and sanitise regularly.