Dis-Chem - A pharmacy that makes you sick not better ..... SPREADING COVID 19?

I went to Dis-Chem, a pharmacy, in the Makhado Mall in Louis Trichardt (Limpopo) on Sunday 27th September. When I went to purchase my items at the checkout, I became aware of about eight or so customers standing around the checkout area, none of whom were abiding by the social distance regulations, as outlined by our government. On closer observation, I realised that this was not through their choice, but that only six checkouts were open, all of which were next to one another. Despite this, there were a total 12 checkouts available (of which the six that were open were all next to one another). This meant that the social distancing rule was not being enforced whereas it could have been; each cashier could have sat at a cash till with a space between them and the next cashier; instead, they were all clumped together.

I asked to speak to the manager to lodge my concern regarding the lack of social distancing enforcement but was referred to a supervisor. I expressed my concern, stating that the set-up of the check outs was unacceptable and dangerous to both customer and the cashiers’ health. There was also a sign on the wall, ironically stating, “Your safety is our concern.”

The response from the supervisor was one of complete disregard; she apologised to me and said they would do something about it tomorrow. I stated that this would be far too late to address if anyone in the queue had the virus, but my concern was met with a shrug. I am appalled at this attitude, and the total disregard for both customers and staff. This was Dis-Chem – a pharmacy…. A place where sick people go!

On a final note, I disinfected my hands and had my temperature taken upon entering the store – my temperature registered as 32.4°C – technically this means I was hypothermic, and potentially sick. I queried this with the staff member but was informed that I was alright. How many other people have been allowed to enter the store either hypo-or-hyperthermic? This again, is a huge concern – either the equipment to take the temperature is not functioning or the staff member has not been trained in identifying what a correct temperature should be.