Dear Minister Mkhize 26 May 2020 Health workers commend the actions taken by the National Department of Health to flatten the

However, as health workers, we are dismayed that the Policy on Occupational Health for Health Workers in respect of HIV and TB developed in 2016 has still not been released or implemented, leaving our health workers unprotected during health emergencies. [...] As health workers, we take pride in our jobs and are committed to serving the public and supporting the Department of Health to deliver on commitments made at the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB and to respond to emerging public health crises. [...] The preparedness of our health system to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic largely rests on health workers, but without adequate training, PPE and other necessary support, our health workers in direct patient care are already becoming sick and some have even lost their lives. [...] Expedite the finalisation and release of the policy on Occupational Health for Health Workers In respect of HIV and TB that was submitted by the National Policy Steering Group at the end of 2016 already. [...] Implement measures to ensure that all health workers, including historically marginalised CHWs, know their rights as contained in the above policy and related documents, specifically the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act.