COVID-19: What we think we know about the epidemiological numbers
Many of the key epidemiological numbers for COVID-19 are still uncertain. Adele Baleta takes us through some of the best estimates out there.
#Whatsitlike: The fascinating world of Surrogacy in South Africa
Reproductive freedom can include both the right to avoid procreation through means like abortion and the right to choose procreation through surrogacy and Assistive Reproductive Technology. Spotlight sat down with a mother who has been a surrogate on two occasions to discuss choice, the legalities and medical side of this process.
COVID-19: The science and policy calculous behind SA’s new mask recommendations
On Friday (10 April) Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize recommended that members of the public wear cloth facemasks of at least three layers. In so doing, Mkhize gave direction on an issue that has created much uncertainty. Dr Kerrin Begg unpacks the science and policy driving this decision.
COVID-19: How scientists found the fingerprint behind South Africa’s SARS-CoV-2 virus
A team of local scientists have put together the first genetic fingerprint of a SARS-CoV-2 virus found in South Africa. Spotlight spoke to two of the scientists to learn more.
COVID-19: NHLS claims it can do 15 000 tests a day
The National Health Laboratory Service claims it has the capacity to do 15 000 COVID-19 tests a day, but that the actual number of tests being done is lower because of limited demand from provinces.
COVID-19: How rural healthcare workers are preparing
Spotlight asked Dr Lungile Hobe-Nxumalo, Chair of the Rural Doctors’ Association of Southern Africa, how rural healthcare facilities can prepare for the fight against COVID-19.
COVID-19: SA’s looming ventilator shortage
A key concern in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic internationally has been a shortage of medical equipment, particularly ventilators. Elna Schütz asks whether we are sufficiently prepared in South Africa.
COVID-19: Progress on cell phone tracking, but concerns remain
Government can now track people’s movements through their cell phones to establish who may have come into contact with people who have tested positive for COVID-19. Spotlight spoke to experts and activists about the new tracking plans.
Contain your Cough: #Masks4All in South Africa
A collaboration of public health and infection prevention doctors of TB Proof and Public Health Action Team started a Masks4All campaign arguing for homemade face masks as a potentially powerful tool to the fight against COVID-19. Here they explain why.
COVID-19: Minister Mkhize is responsible for coordinating with private sector
Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize must use all the legal mechanisms at his disposal to ensure that the constitutional imperative that everyone has the right to have access to health care services is realised, writes Nkululeko Conco and Tendai Mafuma.
COVID-19: Discontent among CHWs on the frontlines
In South Africa’s war against COVID-19 community healthcare workers are foot soldiers on the frontlines. Spotlight spoke to CHWs from across the country about their concerns regarding a lack of protective equipment and job security.
COVID-19: We need a People-led not Army-enforced Lockdown
South Africa’s 21-day lockdown is a drastic measure intended to help and protect the public. For it to work it needs an extraordinary level of trust, communication and clear messaging and will have to be implemented with belief, commitment and engagement by the vast majority of our people, writes Dr Lydia Cairncross and Kelly Gillespie.