Namibia’s first cholera case has been reported in Kunene, prompting the MoHSS to activate health measures to prevent an outbreak. A 55-year-old woman with symptoms tested positive for Vibrio cholerae. The ministry emphasizes community education on prevention and urges immediate medical consultation for symptoms, while assuring that cooperation with health authorities is crucial.
Namibia has confirmed its first cholera case in the Kunene region, prompting heightened alert in health care services. The executive director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS), Ben Nangombe, stated that efforts are underway to prevent a possible outbreak following the identification of this case.
The cholera case involves a 55-year-old woman who presented to Opuwo District Hospital on March 2, 2025, with severe watery diarrhoea. After a stool sample was collected and analyzed, Vibrio cholerae, the causative bacterium of cholera, was confirmed on March 10. Fortunately, the patient has since been treated and discharged in stable condition.
Nangombe emphasized the urgency in managing the situation, noting that initial investigations indicated the patient had no recent travel outside of Namibia or participation in large public gatherings, which typically facilitate disease transmission. Efforts continue to establish the source of the infection and to prevent additional cases.
Cholera, transmitted through contaminated water or food, can trigger severe dehydration if untreated. Health professionals affirm that appropriate medical intervention can reduce fatality rates to below one percent. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers a single confirmed case with local transmission as an outbreak that requires immediate public health action.
The health ministry has mobilized its regional response team and has enhanced surveillance accordingly. With ongoing cholera threats in 17 African nations, Namibia is urged to maintain vigilance and undertake all necessary precautions for managing further spread.
To address the situation, the MoHSS is strengthening community education about cholera prevention, safe water practices, and hygiene. Nangombe advised the public to boil or treat drinking water and observe strict hygiene measures. He encouraged individuals showing symptoms to seek urgent medical care and assured that cooperation with health authorities is crucial for managing the outbreak’s risk.
While there is no need for alarm, Nangombe called for collaboration in adhering to control measures, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation. The ministry has also established a hotline for public inquiries and urges prompt reporting of suspected cholera cases to health officials.
The reporting of Namibia’s first cholera case has prompted health authorities to implement rigorous measures to prevent further transmission of the disease. The timely diagnosis and treatment of the patient reflect the preparedness of the health services. Continuous education on preventive practices and adherence to health guidelines remain critical in safeguarding public health. The community’s cooperation is essential in mitigating this health risk while maintaining calm during this response effort.
Original Source: www.observer24.com.na
