Services at Tembisa Hospital will continue after second fire at facility, Phaahla reassures public

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla has reassured the public that services at Tembisa Hospital will continue after a second fire at the facility's main outpatient department.

The area was already cordoned off after a fire on Saturday, and no patients were present when Wednesday’s blaze broke out.

Smoke spread to nearby units including the pharmacy, eye clinic, and temporary emergency areas, now undergoing safety assessments and air quality testing.

ALSO READ:

• Tembisa Hospital fire: Stroke patient among dozens left in limbo

• Unknown number of patient files destroyed in Tembisa Hospital fire - Ekurhuleni EMS

• Section of Tembisa Hospital cordoned off as investigators probe cause of latest fire

Phaahla said that a business continuity plan was in place to minimise disruption.

"We are doing everything possible to ensure that patients are safe — even those in the wards are safe. There is no threat at this stage, they are receiving the care they need."

The cause of both fires is under investigation.

Walk-in patients are still being helped, but emergency services remain diverted.