3D printers make protective gear for SAfrica medics

The University of Pretoria has begun manufacturing 3D-printed parts for facial shields to be used by health care workers fighting COVID-19, as South Africa struggles with a shortage of protective gear.

The university's MakerSpace Centre has started printing visor frames in the space of an hour, which is faster than the standard two hours.

Polylactic acid (PLA) and the stronger super PLA plastic are used for printing.

The facial shields, which are vital for frontline health staff who are testing and treating members of the public for COVID-19, are to be used by workers in Gauteng.

South Africa has confirmed 1,749 cases of the coronavirus and 13 deaths.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.