Namibia has reported its first cholera case in a decade, prompting health officials to enhance surveillance and response mechanisms. The case relates to an ongoing outbreak in Angola. Africa CDC has dispatched 2,000 vaccines to support health workers in Angola as the region faces health challenges with cholera. Access to clean water and sanitation is critical to combatting the disease.
Namibia recently confirmed its first cholera case in a decade, as reported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The case, involving a 55-year-old woman from the Kunene region, was confirmed through laboratory testing, which prompted health authorities to enhance disease surveillance and response strategies. She is recovering and has been discharged from the hospital after displaying symptoms of diarrhoea.
Despite the absence of recent international travel, the case has raised concerns due to the proximity of the Kunene region to Angola, which is currently experiencing a cholera outbreak. Africa CDC Director Jean Kaseya attributed this case to the ongoing outbreak in Angola, which has reported over 6,500 infections and approximately 237 deaths since the start of the year. Kaseya highlighted that Angola’s infection rate is decreasing and containment efforts are being implemented.
To assist in the response, Africa CDC supplied 2,000 oral cholera vaccines designated for healthcare workers in Angola. However, Kaseya emphasized the necessity for additional resources to facilitate wider vaccine distribution. Cholera, an acute diarrheal illness caused by bacteria found in contaminated food and water, is particularly lethal without timely treatment, especially in young children under five years of age.
Preventive measures such as access to clean water and proper sanitation, alongside vaccination, are crucial in mitigating outbreaks. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) noted a 12% reduction in cholera cases in Africa for 2024, fatalities have increased by 3.1%. Furthermore, WHO reported that Africa had the highest global incidence of cholera cases and deaths as of January. In light of this confirmed case, Namibian health authorities have heightened their alert status and are reinforcing measures to avert further infections.
In conclusion, Namibia’s confirmation of its first cholera case in ten years marks a significant health concern, particularly due to its geographical proximity to Angola’s ongoing outbreak. As authorities bolster surveillance and response strategies, the need for awareness around vaccination and access to clean water remains paramount in preventing further spread of this dangerous disease. The situation warrants continued monitoring to safeguard public health.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
