The Department of Health is intensifying its preparedness measures amid growing concerns that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could spread to South Africa.
The outbreak has claimed more than 500 lives, with over 1,500 confirmed cases reported in the DRC. Health authorities have also noted that there is currently no approved vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus responsible for the outbreak.
The escalating crisis has prompted South Africa to strengthen its response plans, with Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi confirming that hospitals across the country have been designated to manage any potential cases.
"We have selected hospitals that will be used in the case of an outbreak," Motsoaledi said.
He said 36 hospitals have been identified for Ebola response efforts, including 12 private hospitals and 24 public healthcare facilities.
Motsoaledi added that three specialised committees have been established to oversee the country's preparedness, conduct simulation exercises and coordinate the training of healthcare workers.
"We prepare ourselves with the assumption that the disease may come to any country," he said.
Infectious disease specialist Dr Salim Abdool Karim warned that South Africa should be prepared for the possibility of an imported case, saying it is only a matter of time before the virus reaches the country.
The country's preparedness efforts follow President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent visit to the DRC, where he reaffirmed the African Union's solidarity with the Congolese government in its fight against the outbreak.
During the visit, Ramaphosa pledged the support of both South Africa and the African Union in efforts to contain the spread of the virus and strengthen the regional response.
Health authorities have urged vigilance while reassuring the public that extensive planning is underway to ensure South Africa is equipped to respond swiftly should an Ebola case be detected.