THE district of Leribe has had the highest number of COVID-19 cases since June 8, the District Administrator Mohlophehi Mohobelo says.

He was speaking at a press conference that was held at the DA’s office in Hlotse on Friday.

Mr Mohobelo said the first COVID-19 cases were identified at Khethisa High School, where a suspect aged 17 reported at a local health facility and contact tracing was thereafter conducted by the Rapid Response Team.
He said from the findings made by the team, it emerged that 10 schools in Leribe had connection with Khethisa High School.

The said schools included ’Makhethisa Primary School, Tsoinyane Primary School, Joy to the World, Pitseng Primary School, Ponmain Primary School, Likepe Primary School, Fonesoa Primary School along with Malibamatšo High School, Molapo High School and Mpharane Primary School.
The total number of learners who tested positive was 193 and five of them were admitted in hospital although they were later discharged.

Mr Mohobelo said 48 villages in Leribe including Mphosong, Pitseng, Sebothoane and Tsoinyane also reported high numbers of COVID-19 cases.

He said three COVID-19 related deaths have been reported in the district - one in Maputsoe, a teacher at Mpharane Primary School and a man who was from South Africa.
Mr Mohobelo pledged that the district is working hard to ensuring that those who are affected get assistance.

He appealed to all residents to always remain vigilant by wearing face masks and keeping social distancing as well as avoiding crowds whenever possible.
He urged them to report to the nearest health centres whenever they have flu symptoms.