Namibia Amplifies Malaria Control Efforts Amid Increasing Cases in Northern Areas
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Synopsis
Namibia's Ministry of Health escalates its fight against a severe malaria outbreak, reporting 28 fatalities and nearly 5,900 cases. With most cases in northern regions, the ministry's response includes enhanced spraying, mosquito net distribution, and community awareness efforts.
Key Takeaways
- MoHSS enhances malaria outbreak response.
- 28 fatalities and 5,898 confirmed cases reported.
- 20 of 26 malaria-endemic districts exceed epidemic threshold.
- High-risk groups include children and pregnant women.
- Preventive measures include indoor spraying and community outreach.
Windhoek, Jan 24 (NationPress) Namibia's Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has escalated efforts to tackle a malaria outbreak that has claimed 28 lives, with 5,898 confirmed cases reported as of January 19, officials indicated on Friday.
MoHSS Executive Director Ben Nangombe announced during a press briefing in Windhoek that 20 of the country's 26 malaria-prone districts have exceeded the epidemic threshold, predominantly in the northern regions.
"The Eenhana district constitutes 24 percent of the total cases, trailed by Okongo and Engela, each with 13 percent, and Nkurenkuru with 12 percent," Nangombe specified.
More than half of Namibia's population resides in areas susceptible to malaria, particularly in rural locales.
"The affected regions include Kavango East, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, Omusati, and Zambezi," Nangombe elaborated, noting that vulnerable groups, such as children under five, expectant mothers, and nomadic populations, face heightened risks of severe malaria due to delays in accessing medical care.
The current outbreak aligns with Namibia's seasonal malaria pattern, which peaks from December to April due to increased rainfall that creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"Puddles, stagnant pools, and various water bodies that form from rainfall provide mosquitoes with numerous sites to lay their eggs," Nangombe remarked.
To mitigate the outbreak, the ministry has enacted several strategies, including indoor residual spraying, distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets, and conducting door-to-door awareness initiatives.
The ministry has also enhanced cross-border cooperation with neighboring nations to manage malaria in border areas and has urged the public to adhere to preventive measures to control the outbreak.
"Early healthcare access is vital in the fight against malaria. When treated quickly, uncomplicated malaria can be effectively managed, diminishing the risk of severe complications and fatalities," Nangombe emphasized.
