SA confirms third case of coronavirus

South Africa’s health ministry has confirmed that a third patient - the wife of the country’s first patient - has tested positive for coronavirus, bringing the total number of cases diagnosed in the country to three. 

The couple likely contracted the virus during their recent visit to Italy, as part of a group of ten. Their two children have tested negative. 

The first patient, a 39-year-old man, was diagnosed with coronavirus on Thursday.

South Africa’s Health Minister Zweli Mkihize said on Sunday that he spoke to the man, who appeared “upbeat and jovial”. 

On Saturday a 39-year-old woman who returned with the group from Italy was also diagnosed with the virus.

The Health Ministry said in a statement that they expect results from the remaining six group members within the next 48 hours.

Africa now has over 30 confirmed cases of coronavirus, with Algeria being the worst affected. Of the country’s 17 cases 16 are within one family.  

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