PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Just days before Bitou Mayor Peter Lobese tested positive for Covid-19 he warned residents that "it can catch anyone".

"It was very prophetic because those words have actually come true," Lobese said.

The town's first citizen tested positive for Covid-19 last week after falling ill on 25 June. "I had a terrible flu and decided to visit my doctor. I was taken for a Covid-19 test and ordered to isolate until I receive my results. I did as ordered by the doctor and withdrew myself from all my responsibilities while retreating to the comfort of my room at home," he recounted.

He said he never showed any symptoms until he came down with what he believed at first was the flu, and needed to go to the doctor. "This means it is important to go to the doctor when you do not feel well. Be vigilant about your own health as it can save your life and that of those close to you."

Lobese received his results on Wednesday 1 July and was ordered to self-isolate until he recovered. "I have been very much on the forefront of the drive to prevent the spread and urging our residents to comply with hygiene and safety protocols as well as all regulations set by authorities. I have tried, as best as I can, to comply myself. However, it shows that we cannot let our guard slip at all, as it takes one slip-up and the virus will strike."

He will now try hard to fight the virus and will remain in quarantine to ensure that he doesn't spread the virus further.

Lobese pleaded with residents to obey the regulations and to commit to the hygiene and health standards laid down by authorities. "Please treat everyone else as being possibly infected by the virus."

He reiterated the importance of wearing masks when leaving the house, regularly washing one's hands with soap and water, maintaining social distancing, avoiding large gatherings and avoiding making physical contact with others.

"I repeat that we must all be vigilant in this fight. The sooner we realise that the coronavirus does not care about race, class, position of power nor area of residence, the better. Please try your best to stay safe."

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