At GetSavvi Health we understand our members’ concern around the Coronavirus (COVID-19), therefore, we’ve put together a list of facts to help educate and prepare you, our most valued members. 

 

What you need to know about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in SA

 

Currently, Coronavirus (COVID-19) is still contained in South Africa as only a few people have been tested positive for the virus. All hospitals have confirmed readiness and are well versed in the protocol to follow.

 

What are the signs and symptoms?

 

The symptoms, which may appear in two to 14 days after exposure, are:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat 
  • Shortness of breath
  • Breathing difficulties
  • In more severe cases, infection may cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. 

 

Members who feel sick may follow these steps:

 

If you show symptoms and have travelled to an infected area, don’t go to your GP to avoid spreading it to others. 

 

GetSavvi Health members can:

 

1  Use their 24/7 Health Advisor benefit by calling 082 911 and ask to speak to a nurse. 

2  See a pharmacy nurse with their FeelBetterFast benefit. Call us on 0861 18 92 02 and a consultant will activate your pharmacy voucher. 

3  See a doctor from one of our 2 000+ network GPs across the country. 

 

Where can I get more information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

 

If you’re concerned, call the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) general public hotline on 0800-029-999, Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm. Or visit the NICD’s website at www.nicd.ac.za.

 

You can also download our helpful infographic that shares everything you need to know about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) by clicking this link.

 

What other measures can I take to avoid getting sick?

 

By getting your annual flu vaccine, you’ll keep your immune system in better shape. Although the annual flu vaccine won’t provide protection against Coronavirus (COVID-19), getting it, especially this year, means that you’ll potentially: be more protected against infection and thereby less likely to require healthcare; avoid being flagged as a possible Coronavirus case (and the need for testing and risk of being put in isolation); and save the healthcare system from using resources which could be directed to where it’s more urgently needed.

 

GetSavvi Health’s FeelBetterFast benefit offers pharmacy consultations, medication and free flu vaccinations. 

 

To make use of the FeelBetterFast benefit, simply contact our Care Centre on 0861 18 92 02 where you’ll be directed to your closest network pharmacy and issued you with an electronic voucher via your cell phone. Visit the clinic at the pharmacy and present the voucher to the nurse or pharmacist.

 

Stay healthy! 

GetSavvi Health Team