Gauteng Premier David Makhura on Friday announced that he will self-quarantine for two weeks after testing positive for the novel coronavirus (Covid-19). 

In a statement, the Premier explained he was experiencing mild symptoms of the virus and will follow World Health Organisation protocols by self-isolating and working from home.

As Gauteng becomes the epicentre of the virus in South Africa with 81 546 cases, Gauteng MECs will give an update later today, while the Provincial Executive Council and Provincial Covid-19 Command Council continue to respond to the virus.

To date South Africa has recorded 238 339 cases of Covid-19 and 3 720 deaths.

Makhura has appealed to Gauteng residents to continue observing basic hygiene such as regularly washing hands, wearing a mask and practicing physical distancing.

“The primary focus of our response is to limit the number of infections and save more lives. We must double our efforts because Gauteng is once again the epicentre of Covid-19,” he said.