Is Namibia Facing Five Concurrent Disease Outbreaks?
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Synopsis
Namibia is currently dealing with five disease outbreaks, including poliovirus and cholera. Health Minister Esperance Luvindao has assured the public of comprehensive response measures. The nation is urged to remain calm amid these health challenges. Updates reveal a dire situation, with fatalities reported from measles and CCHF.
Key Takeaways
- Namibia is dealing with five disease outbreaks.
- Health Minister has called for public calm.
- Two deaths reported from measles.
- Cholera outbreak confirmed in Grootfontein.
- Polio-free status at risk due to imported cases.
Windhoek, Nov 28 (NationPress) Namibia is currently facing five simultaneous disease outbreaks, as announced by Health and Social Services Minister Esperance Luvindao on Friday.
Minister Luvindao reported that the ministry is actively addressing outbreaks of poliovirus, cholera, measles, mpox, and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), as per Xinhua News Agency.
“I understand that the news of various disease outbreaks may create unease among the public. However, I urge everyone to remain calm and assured that there is no cause for panic. The ministry, alongside stakeholders, is implementing extensive response measures,” Luvindao stated.
The minister emphasized two particularly significant developments. A type-2 poliovirus was identified in a sewage sample taken on October 24 from the Ndama sewage pond in the Rundu District.
“Laboratory results indicated that this poliovirus type-2 is genetically related to two human cases reported in Menongue District, Cubango Province, Angola,” she added.
“This signifies the importation of the virus into Namibia. Consequently, I acknowledge that there is a poliovirus incident in Namibia, and we will respond accordingly in accordance with international standards,” she remarked.
The Minister noted that Namibia had been free of polio for several years, with the last outbreak documented in 2006.
Additionally, the minister officially declared a cholera outbreak in the Grootfontein health district within the Otjozondjupa Region on Thursday. As of Monday, five suspected cases have been recorded, three of which tested positive. All cases are confined to an informal settlement in Grootfontein, with no travel history, indicating local transmission.
Luvindao also provided updates on the ongoing outbreaks of measles, CCHF, and mpox.
“I must inform the nation that we have lost two lives due to this measles outbreak in the Grootfontein and Okahao districts,” she noted, adding that one death has been reported from CCHF, while no fatalities have occurred from mpox.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the importance of public health and safety during these challenging times in Namibia. The government is taking necessary steps to manage these outbreaks, and it's essential for the public to remain informed and cooperative without succumbing to panic.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What diseases are currently affecting Namibia?
Namibia is currently facing outbreaks of poliovirus, cholera, measles, mpox, and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF).
What measures are being taken by the government?
Health Minister Esperance Luvindao has assured the public that comprehensive response measures are being implemented to manage the outbreaks.
Are there any fatalities reported?
Yes, there have been two reported deaths due to the measles outbreak and one from CCHF.
Where are the outbreaks concentrated?
The outbreaks are primarily located in the Grootfontein health district and the Ndama sewage pond in Rundu District.
How can the public contribute to prevention efforts?
The public is urged to remain calm, stay informed, and cooperate with health authorities to prevent further spread of the diseases.
