What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19 (World Health Organization).
Since the announcement of the outbreak in January 2020, Nelson Mandela University has been exploring ways in which it can help fight the spread of the virus. Everyone is encouraged to take responsibility by educating yourself about the virus, and to heed all precautionary measures.
In a symbolic gesture of peace and victory, every Nelson Mandela University staff member who overcomes COVID-19 will receive an olive tree sapling from the institution.
Additionally, the University will also recognise the recovery of these staff members through the online sharing of a virtual olive tree on its website. For every “cleared case” a leaf is added to the virtual tree to visually showcase the recoveries:

Vaccine rollout
A full array of credible resources to enable better understanding of the new vaccines and roll-out processes nationally and on our University campuses.
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Coping with COVID
A guide to managing mild COVID-19 symptoms at home.
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Returning to campus
Information regarding the return to campus for staff and students.
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Academic & Research Activities during COVID-19
Our approach is to allow all students to achieve their learning outcomes through multiple, blended pathways.
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Information posters
COVID-19 posters for downloading
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#MaskUpMandela
Mandela University’s #MaskUpMandela movement is part of a collective drive to save lives by wearing a mask and help prevent further spread of the coronavirus. This includes our new cartoon series, eRona Times.
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Photo galleries
These photo galleries document some of the measures that have been put in place across our campuses to combat COVID-19.
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Convergence Fund
The purpose of the Mandela University Convergence Fund is to mobilise resources to assist in addressing serious societal issues like hunger and deprivation in communities.
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Together We Can
In serving our community, we are facilitating a volunteer process in seeking the expertise of professionals in our fight against COVID-19.
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Academic Responses to COVID-19
Nelson Mandela University academics as well as students and Alumni, have contributed to the academic space and conversation around COVID-19 through various articles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Responding to questions asked by students and staff on social media and elsewhere.
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Research and Innovation response to COVID-19
The CEO of Universities South Africa (USAf) has requested universities to respond to a call to rapidly provide assistance to the public against the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Memos
Latest information sent to students and staff.
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Video messages
View messages from our DVC: Learning & Teaching, Dean of Health Sciences and Dean of Students.
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Compulsory wearing of masks
Updated restrictions.
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Gatherings
Updated restrictions.
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Curfew and Alcohol
Updated restrictions.
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Close or Casual Contact
Take responsibility in educating
yourself to fight the pandemic.
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Suspected or Confirmed Case
Take responsibility in educating
yourself to fight the pandemic.
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Cluster or Outbreak
Take responsibility in educating
yourself to fight the pandemic.
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Quarantine or Isolation
Take responsibility in educating
yourself to fight the pandemic.
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Resources
Coronavirus Emergency Hotlines
24-hour public toll-free numbers
0800 029 999
0800 111 132
Wellness@Work Care Centre
for emotional support and advice
0800 205 333
HIGHER HEALTH PSET
for mental health and psycho-social support
0800 36 36 36
SMS 43336
Testing facilities in Port Elizabeth
Private
You will have to be referred by your GP
Ampath drive through collection site
13 Pickering Street, Newton Park
Port Elizabeth
041 396 9513
Mon-Fri 08:00-16:00
Private
You will have to be referred by your GP
PathCare drive through collection site
3 How Avenue, St George's Park
Port Elizabeth
041 393 7904
howave@pathcare.co.za
Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30
Stats
Videos
How mRNA Vaccines Work - Simply Explained.
Mental well-being during the COVID19 lockdown.
How to monitor yourself for symptoms