Your COVID-19 knowledge hub

Now Discovery Health Medical Scheme members can access antigen tests (and more) at conveniently located drive-through facilities in hotspot areas.

Should I ask my doctor to send me for an antibody test for COVID 19? What is the difference between PCR molecular testing and antibody testing for COVID 19? If I have antibodies for COVID 19, does that mean that I am immune to the disease?

What's novel coronavirus 2019 and how does it compare to flu? We're a month away from flu season, and with the novel coronavirus 2019 on everyone's mind, here's what you need to know...

Currently a global public health concern, health officials around the world are learning more about novel coronavirus 2019 each day.

Discovery Health CEO Dr Ryan Noach has called on all South Africans to work together to stop the 2019 coronavirus in its tracks. What should you do if you think you have symptoms of COVID-19?

It's a good idea to seek medical evaluation as early as possible if your child is ill. There is some overlap between the symptoms of COVID-19, flu and the common cold.

You should only be tested for particular reasons, and there is a specific process you have to follow to undergo the test for COVID-19. Here is how it works.

Don't buy into online information about self tests for COVID 19 that seem cheap and promise a quick and accurate result. There really is only one reliable form of testing.

Whether you suspect you have COVID-19 but haven't been tested, or you've tested positive - either way you need to self-isolate for 14 days. But do you need to be re-tested after this isolation period? Find out here.

Hindsight is 20/20 and, in the case of COVID-19, hindsight is also 2021. So what have we learned from the first and second COVID-19 waves? With a third COVID-19 wave looming and the new, more infectious SARS-CoV-2 variant (the virus that causes COVID-19) now dominant in South Africa, even those who had the original virus are not sufficiently protected.

There are concerns that a third wave of COVID-19 infections will hit the country after the April break, which means it would likely coincide with the start of the flu season. Where does having our yearly flu vaccination fit into this all? Can we have a flu vaccination and a COVID-19 vaccination?

Superspreader events aren't limited to large gatherings only. We may assume a superspreader event is one where many people are together and we are safe when in smaller groups. However, any event where half the participants contract COVID-19 can be classified as a superspreader event - as these case studies show.

COVID-19 need not put a damper on your plans. Whether you're celebrating the religious holiday or simply taking time out for well-earned rest, there are many things you can do this April break to enjoy time with loved ones and even get out and about, while staying safe and healthy!

Here, we help you to understand how risky various activities might be in exposing you to COVID-19 and potential superspreader events. We list popular activities by level of risk and give you a handy seven-point check for each activity. Stay safe, stay healthy!

One major contribution to South Africa's second wave of infections was a superspreader event in early December 2020. Heading into a potential third wave of COVID-19 infection - possibly just after the April holiday period - it's critical that we prevent and avoid these events and keep our guard up.

South Africa has overcome the second wave of COVID-19 infection and moved to alert level 1. We're also approaching the April break - a time when people might, while relaxing with loved ones, be prone to relaxing their caution around preventing the spread of COVID-19. However, as experts warn, a third wave of infection could be upon us soon.

No matter how you're spending your time over the holidays, it's important to adhere to the preventive measures that limit your exposure to COVID-19 and keep you and others safe.

It's been a long year and with the approach of the festive season it's understandable that we are all looking forward to catching up with our loved ones and relaxing.

We're reaching the end of a challenging year. Exhausted people all over South Africa are looking forward to well-earned time out, either at home or at a holiday destination.

With the symptoms of COVID-19 infection so similar to those of the flu, some people are wondering whether having a the flu vaccine can help to protect against severe COVID-19 illness? In short, the flu vaccine protects us against the strain of flu expected in each year's flu season. It does not protect us against COVID-19. Here's why

When a test shows you have COVID 19, do you self-isolate for 14 or 10 days? And how long do you self-quarantine for after being exposed to (having had close contact with) a person confirmed to have COVID 19? Here's clarity on the latest guidelines.

Forget capes. The modern-day superhero wears a mask. Here's everything you need to know about wearing a face mask the right way.

These important science-proven behaviours will help keep you and your loved ones safe so we need to keep doing them. Even if we're feeling corona fatigue. Here's how we can fight the spread of COVID-19 together.

Our knowledge about COVID-19 is constantly evolving. Are children really less likely to become ill? If you're pregnant and have COVID-19, will your baby be born with it? Can you breastfeed while ill?

We've fast adapted to wearing face masks to curb the spread of COVID 19. Now, face shields are gaining attention. But are they effective in protecting us, and others, from the spread of disease? For now, and until more research is done, they can't be recommended in place of face masks.

Are you worried about optimum breathing while wearing a face mask to curb the spread of COVID 19 and possible effects on your health? Dr Philippa Wheble and Dr Ela Manga (pictured) share all you need to know.

How can you protect yourself against COVID-19? Specialist physician and hepatologist Dr Neliswa Gogela recently made a podcast with Discovery in which she recommended eight practical steps you can take to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

How do you wear a fabric face mask? It seems simple, until you realise that you need to do a few things to make sure that you use it correctly to stay safe from the 2019 coronavirus.

Physical distancing and other measures required to flatten the COVID-19 curve have revealed the true value of telemedicine. Here are five reasons why telehealth and online consultations are playing...

To help contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the National Department of Health has issued new recommendations on wearing face masks. South Africans are now advised to wear a cloth face mask

While the world gets to grips with flattening the infection rate curve of COVID-19 and practising strict preventive measures, many parents are concerned, in particular, for their children.

With the recent outbreak of novel coronavirus 2019 and the flu season upon us, raising awareness and preventing viruses from spreading is crucial. Here are eight simple, yet powerful steps...

Among the best practices for stemming the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic is so-called "social distancing". How does limiting contact between people curb the spread of COVID-19?

As the outbreak of COVID 19 continues to spread across the world, containment measures are becoming more important. Social distancing is one way help stop the virus spreading.

Have you thought about the cleanliness of objects that you and the people around you touch all the time? Here's what you need to know about cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched items as part of your efforts to curb...

As toddlers, we learnt to wash our hands. But, did we ever master the skill to the extent that is needed to wash pathogens off our hands, and save lives? Multiple studies show people don't wash...

When and how should you wear a face mask? The recommendations about wearing masks have changed. Here's what the South African Department of Health and the World Health Organization have to say...

Protecting your child begins with educating yourself about coronavirus 2019 and avoiding the misconceptions doing the rounds about this disease. Speak to your children calmly about it and most importantly...

Currently, COVID-19 infection numbers are increasing daily around the world. What can school boards do to offer improved protection? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Older people and people with chronic conditions are at higher risk of suffering from severe complications if they are diagnosed with COVID-19.

People older than 60 have been identified as high risk for severe illness if they become infected with COVID 19. How can families best take care of their loved ones, both mentally and physically during enhanced...

Old or young, men or women, home bodies or world travellers: are some people more at risk of contracting COVID 19 than others? Or is it time to redefine how we think about risk?

Dr Nici Zeeman, a GP with a special interest in breast and thyroid health at Apffelstaedt and Associates, shares seven steps women can take to deal with any breast health concerns and...

Certain people are at high risk of developing severe illness if they contract COVID-19. Paediatric nephrologist, Prof Errol Gottlich shares key insights into practices that help those who live with chronic renal (kidney) disease...

Should transplant recipients take extra precautions to avoid being exposed to COVID-19? Are transplant recipients at higher risk of severe illness due to COVID-19?

Why are people who live with a chronic illness or are immunocompromised for any reason are at risk of severe illness if they contract COVID-19? And, how can this high-risk group of people stay as healthy as possible?

Recent studies show that the impact of COVID 19 on children is often moderate or mild. Yet, there is a particular group of children who are possibly more vulnerable if they contract COVID 19. You can help protect them.

The spread of the COVID 19 virus in South Africa is cause for concern, as the virus can cause severe illness in immunocompromised people (such as those who have HIV or TB, or both).

Here, we take a look at some important considerations for someone dealing with cancer, or who has recovered, must keep top of mind.

"If I can convince just one person to be vaccinated then opening my heart to you will have been worthwhile," says Dot Field. She's bravely shared her intimate journey through extremely serious COVID-19 illness to encourage others to vaccinate against the disease - and, to truly appreciate their health.

For Gauteng company director and family man, Paul Deppe, 57, being told that three patients who were alongside him in an Empangeni Hospital Covid-19 ICU, had died, was 'terrifying.'

Jay Velen had a very rough start to 2021 when he was diagnosed with COVID-19 on New Year's Day. The fit and healthy 48-year-old with no comorbidities spent the next eight weeks fighting for and trying to reclaim his life.

No country is immune to the spread of the Novel Coronavirus - officially named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreak has reached pandemic proportions...

The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has caused an outbreak of fatal respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. This is a completely new strain with no vaccines available...

There's a lot of talk about the novel coronavirus 2019 and COVID-19, the disease it causes. Some of the information you hear is spot on, some is pure fiction...

The World Health Organization has moved to dispel the myth that COVID-19 is an airborne virus. This and many more myths about COVID-19 virus are spreading in South Africa and globally.

While we cannot currently stop the spread of COVID-19 in South Africa, we have a critical window of opportunity to slow down the spread of the virus as much as possible and "flatten the curve".

Bump elbows in greeting and keep a distance between yourself and others. It's medical advice. We also need to be aware of not fuelling stigma around COVID-19.

Should you travel to areas affected by the COVID-19 outbreak? What should you do if you develop symptoms of respiratory illness while travelling? And, considering the risk of contracting COVID-19, should you travel at all?...

Marion Tanzer is super fit and has always been dedicated to living a healthy lifestyle, so is hardly considered high risk for severe illness from COVID 19. However, her experience of the illness has left her with a healthy respect for the way that it can affect even a low-risk person like her.

57-year-old Colette Patience has two conditions which put her at high risk for severe illness linked to COVID-19. Colette contracted COVID-19 in June and prepared for the worst. However, she slowly recovered. A pulse oximeter sent to her by Discovery Health Medical Scheme was a huge comfort.

We've all heard people refer to the time periods relating to isolation for those who contract COVID-19, or quarantine for those are exposed to the disease. But how well do we understand how long it might take to recover from COVID-19 - and how period differs between individuals?

Multiple members of Dewald Wentzel's immediate family - including his elderly father, Jannie - contracted COVID-19 at the same time. Dewald knew that a pulse oximeter was critical to monitoring the seriousness of his father's symptoms while he recovered at home, but none were available.

Niven and Susan had looked forward to their 21 March wedding for months. And, on 18 March, Niven would also celebrate his 41st birthday. The couple could not have imagined that neither celebration would come to pass.

A Discovery Health Medical Scheme member who contracted COVID-19 while away on a friend's birthday holiday in Austria says she never expected to have been hit so hard by the disease

Antibiotics are not effective in preventing or treating the 2019 coronavirus that causes the respiratory illness known as COVID-19. What's more, misusing antibiotics can result in them not working due to the development of antimicrobial resistance Try these supportive care and preventive measures instead.

To help contain the spread of COVID-19, we need to take proactive steps to prepare for an illness in the home. Here are practical guidelines on what to do if you get sick with COVID-19, basic supplies you'll need, and...

How is coronavirus currently being treated? Here's a breakdown of what you need to know.

If your doctor tells you to self-isolate, you need to stay inside your home and avoid contact with people and pets for at least 14 days, even if you don't have any symptoms. But how do you manage work and family...

Dan Mace was diagnosed with COVID-19 on 21 March 2020 in Cape Town - on what would have been his wedding day.

Spreading COVID-19 awareness is absolutely necessary. But, when does access to the narrative around this disease cross the line - from informing to fuelling fear?

If you or a family member get the virus, here are 10 things you need to know if you ever contract COVID-19.

We don't like to think about it, but what would you do if one of your family members get novel coronavirus 2019?

When Discovery Health Medical Scheme member Pamela Rosenberg tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), she immediately separated from her family, rested, and followed her doctor's advice.

The death of a loved one can be extremely traumatic, says clinical psychologist Mandy Rodrigues. In the context of COVID-19, loss and grieving have become prolonged and complicated experiences.

71-year-old Jeanette Riekstins passed away from COVID-19 related complications on 6 June 2021. She'd just had her first COVID-19 vaccine dose.

Losing a job because of COVID-19 can be devastating. Dr Colinda Linde shares insight into the grieving process and gives advice on how to assess your financial situation.

Clinical psychologist Joanna Kleovoulou urges parents to understand how the COVID 19 pandemic could impact their own and their children's mental health. How should parents respond to their children's needs in an age appropriate way, and go about protecting their mental health?

When you're pregnant, your mental wellbeing is of the utmost importance. But how do you stay positive when the stress and worry about COVID-19 affects us all?

How can you help your teenager cope with the stress and anxiety around COVID-19? Cassey Chambers, operations director at the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, shares advice for parents on how to...

Listen to Prof Grobler discuss how COVID 19 has changed how we experience and talk about our mental health, especially in the workplace.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we live. For children, understanding these changes is a challenge in itself. How can parents navigate this? Professor Renata Schoeman offers some tips.

Are you experiencing a whirlwind of emotions about the extended stay home period? Clinical psychologist Dr Colinda Linde says your feelings of loss are valid and shouldn't be ignored if you want to move forward.

Operations Director at the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Cassey Chambers shares key tips on how to manage your mental wellbeing if you've recently been diagnosed with COVID-19.

The spread of the COVID-19 virus has drastically disrupted our lives. It is normal to feel stressed about the current circumstances. However, what could have an even more profound psychological impact on you...

Clinical psychologist Dessy Tzoneva says grief is a unique experience for everyone. Losing a loved one to coronavirus disease 2019 may make the grieving process even more challenging. She shares advice on how to cope and when to ask for help.

With our vaccine rollout finally starting to gain momentum, a feeling of hope prevails as we look to the future and try to envision what our new normal will be. The good news is that there are plenty of positives to this.

Are you worried about optimum breathing while wearing a face mask to curb the spread of COVID 19 and possible effects on your health? Dr Philippa Wheble and Dr Ela Manga (pictured) share all you need to know.

What does it mean to be pregnant in the time of a pandemic such as COVID 19? Are mothers and babies at risk of contracting the virus? What symptoms can they look for? Prof Priya Soma Pillay talks about everything pregnant women need to know.

Adapting our daily behaviour includes taking care of our health. One of the ways we can stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is to eat healthily.

Vitality biokineticist Mari Leach says physical activity plays a key role in building immunity against the virus and contributing to our good health - both physically and mentally.

Is the fear of exposure to COVID 19 keeping you from seeing your doctor? Waiting too long to get help when we need it allows healthcare issues to escalate, some to the level at which they can cause serious complications or become life-threatening.

Psychologist James Gower reimagines the post pandemic workplace, and shares advice for employers on how to build a better, more productive future.

As sectors of the economy reopen for trade, business owners must take proactive steps to minimise the spread of COVID-19. Here, two of the NICD's experts share all that food-related businesses..

As we re-enter the workplace after extended stay-at-home periods, we might be forgiven for feeling like we're going into uncharted territory.

Many parents became instant teachers as South African schools closed in March. With plans to gradually reopen schools from June, there's no doubt that children's sense of safety could be challenged.

We share 10 ways in which workplaces are adapting, to meet the needs of a world changed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

How can you protect your employees from COVID 19 when they return to work? The NICD has shared advice on how to create a safe work environment.

Louisa Niehaus, psychotherapist and relationship expert, shares advice on how to manage your relationships during COVID-19. "This is an important time to pull together and draw on the unique strengths...

In the coming weeks and months, ever more businesses will resume operations and employees will return to the workplace. What should employers and staff understand about COVID-19 to stay healthy, and to prevent fear of and discrimination against individuals affected by this disease?

While indoors during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, are our homes necessarily safe? Although we're all spending more time at home, it's still important to be vigilant with securing our homes.

As we move into Level 4 lockdown restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic here are some of the things you need to be on the lookout for to make sure your car is in good condition to hit the roads again

Azania Mosaka recently spoke to Gavin MacGregor, the director of the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation, about the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on its scholarship recipients who are studying..

We are all adapting to new ways of working, schooling and living as we collectively help to keep our distance from others and flatten the curve of COVID-19 infections.

Christine du Preez, founder of the award winning HIV and AIDS treatment programme Hlokomela, spoke to Azania Mosaka about how COVID-19 is affecting the health of people living in Hoedspruit.

Globally, governments have enforced unprecedented measures aimed at containing the spread of COVID-19. These measures affect every aspect of daily life.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we live. For children, understanding these changes is a challenge in itself. How can parents navigate this? Professor Renata Schoeman offers some tips.

Social distancing to stem the spread of COVID-19 may extend to the places where we exercise - like the gym, parkrun and myrun. But this does not mean you can't stay fit and healthy, and meet your exercise goals from home.

With the kids at home, why not include a fun and easy exercise routine into your schedule?

With the recent outbreak of coronavirus 2019, Vitality members are wondering whether they should throw in the towel when it comes to working out at the gym. Here's what you should know about exercising at the gym in the time of COVID-19.

Enhanced containment measures aimed at restricting the spread of the COVID-19 virus have meant millions of people the world over suddenly find themselves working from home.

We've all been there: You have an online client meeting, but your children are asking for help with their maths, and your spouse is busy too. What to do? Speaker and author Nikki Bush shares expert advice...

Much of the country's workforce has had to swiftly transition from their office-bound desks to their homes during the current COVID-19 containment period. With so much 'up in the air' at present, how can employees better navigate this uncertain period? Dr Tshidi Gule shares a few pointers.

Some schools around the country have begun implementing alternative measures for remote education. Many parents are having to adapt working from home, while managing their children's schooling at the same time.

The rampant rise of COVID-19 infections across the world has had a significant impact on all of our lives. Many countries, including our own, have already implemented drastic measures to try and...

It isn't business as usual, especially for children right now. But there are ways of navigating the "new normal" that we all find ourselves in, particularly so that children emerge from this experience with enhanced resilience.

News about COVID-19 is non-stop at the moment. Many adults are sifting through an enormous amount of information daily. Can you imagine how this is all being interpreted by young minds?

With the world currently trying to keep up to speed with all the latest developments relating to coronavirus 2019, children are in a vulnerable position when it comes to understanding...

Sufficient physical activity is more important now than ever. Exercise is known to be a powerful way to prevent and manage chronic diseases and boosts the immune system, which can strengthen the body and protect against infections.

The media offers a wealth of information regarding COVID 19 and the virus that causes it as well as what to do to prevent yourself from contracting the virus and from spreading it.

Managing the daily lives of typically developing children during the national stay at home is challenging for any parent or caregiver. However, for parents of a child who has autism, the stay-at-home period and....

According to the Lancet,18% of COVID-19 patients develop a mental health condition within three months of diagnosis. Specialist psychiatrist Dr Marshinee Naidoo explains why it's so important for long COVID patients to seek professional help.

There's a growing evidence that COVID-19 can increase your risk of a range of psychiatric illnesses due to its impact on your brain and mind. Specialist psychiatrist Dr Marshinee Naidoo shares her insights about long COVID's effect on mental health.

With a growing link between COVID-19 and mental health, emerging research is also highlighting the mental health conditions that long COVID patients are currently dealing with. Here's how to help your loved one through these trying times.

On 23 November 2020, Mbali Mbatha (27) was admitted to hospital with COVID-19, 28 weeks into her pregnancy. Little did she know at the time that she'd only leave there 113 days later, with the daughter she'd only just met - and a newly transplanted lung.

In July 2020, 62-year-old Nomsa Daweti tested positive for COVID-19 and was faced with one of the biggest challenges of her life. Eleven months later she describes her journey to recovery, and long COVID's mental and physical toll.

Most people who contract COVID-19 recover within two to three weeks. However, some people - even those who've had mild COVID-19 illness - experience symptoms for months after their initial infection. Having so called "long COVID" can be exhausting for "COVID long haulers".

Recovery from COVID-19 is a gentle process of easing back into a healthy diet and mild physical activity. Information on how to best treat extended symptoms, called 'long COVID', are still emerging.