The rising death toll has left Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi saddened, according to a statement released by the Premier’s spokesperson, Vuyo Mhaga.

Provincial government corrects error

Of the 37 people who have passed on, 12 are healthcare workers (10 government employees and 2 agency staff), all stationed at Tambo Memorial Hospital, according to the statement.

The provincial government confirmed that the number of hospital staff members who were injured during the incident is 35 and not 13, as previously communicated. The 35 injuries are inclusive of those that demised.

The majority of the staff have been treated and discharged.

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According to the statement, eight Ekurhuleni Emergency Medical Service personnel were injured during the explosion; six have been discharged, while two have since been moved from intensive care to normal wards and are recovering well.

Heartfelt condolences from Lesufi

Premier Lesufi, on behalf of the provincial government, extended his sincerest condolences, once again, to the families of the deceased and assured them of the continued support of the government during this difficult period. The premier also wished those that are still receiving medical attention a speedy recovery.

"We continue to stand with the many families whose lives have been changed forever by the tragic incident. This has not been an easy period, particularly for those who lost loved ones. We implore our health professionals to provide the best care to those who are still on the road to recovery.

"There are still several people in various hospitals and the health department continues to monitor their situation," he says.

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Some families have buried their loved ones, whilst others will bury their loved ones this week and next week. Both the national and provincial governments deployed officials to attend the funerals and provide support to the affected families.

"There is ongoing counselling for staff and their families and for bereaved families offered by clinical psychologists, social workers, and chaplains. Where necessary, the government, working with organisations such as Gift of the Givers and Avbob, has assisted with burial arrangements above other social relief measures offered to affected families," Lesufi concluded.

eNCA