This is according to Premier Sisi Ntombela. On Friday morning, she also applauded the contact tracing team after it was able to identify more than 1 815 contacts from the positive cases. She adds that they have been able to trace 1 484 people and so far 2767 have been screened. On Thursday, Ntombela, Health MEC Montsheng Tsiu ,and National Minister Zweli Mkhize, were part of a massive screening operation at Heidedal following the outbreak of the virus. On Thursday night, Mkhize also announced that so far they are waiting for clarification and verification of  2 more deaths, apart from the 5 that have been reported already.

"While we are making steady progress, we are extremely concerned at the pace at which the virus is spreading, especially amongst those who do not know they are potential contacts.

"We will be significantly scaling our screening and testing efforts to make sure that at least 90% of the people in Mangaung, the epicentre, are screened," Ntombela adds. She says the Department of Health will further elaborate on the plans in line with the president’s announcement. 

So far, the province has recorded at least one death after the 86-year-old pastor, who also attended the church gathering, died from the virus in Bloemfontein. His 81-year-old wife is said to be in a stable condition in hospital. So far the province has recorded a total number of 86 positive cases. Ntombela on Thursday night said 77 of the 86 people are from Mangaung and Bloemfontein in particular.

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