Namibia Reports First Cholera Case in a Decade Amidst Angola Outbreak
Namibia has confirmed its first cholera case in ten years, involving a local woman who has since recovered. The case is linked to an ongoing outbreak in Angola, which has seen over 6,500 infections. The Africa CDC is assisting with vaccinations while emphasizing the need for more resources. This situation has prompted increased health surveillance in Namibia to prevent further infections.
Namibia has reported its first cholera case in ten years, confirmed by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The case involves a 55-year-old woman from the Kunene region who displayed diarrhoea symptoms but has since recovered and been discharged. This event has heightened the urgency for health officials to enhance disease surveillance and response strategies, especially given her lack of recent travel history.
Africa CDC director Jean Kaseya indicated a connection to Angola’s cholera outbreak, which has resulted in 6,564 infections and 237 fatalities since January. The Kunene region’s proximity to Angola increases the likelihood of disease transmission across borders. Despite this, Kaseya remarked that the infection rates in Angola are decreasing, and measures to control the outbreak are in progress.
To assist in the response, the Africa CDC has supplied 2,000 oral cholera vaccines for healthcare professionals in Angola. Kaseya emphasized the necessity for additional resources to ensure broader vaccine availability. Cholera is a severe disease caused by bacteria found in contaminated water and food and can lead to severe dehydration and death if untreated, particularly affecting young children.
Preventing cholera outbreaks requires access to clean water, proper sanitation, and vaccination initiatives. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a 12% decrease in cholera cases across Africa in 2024, although deaths have escalated by 3.1%. As of January, Africa recorded the highest global cholera cases and deaths, highlighting the ongoing health challenge. Namibian health authorities are thus implementing precautions to mitigate further risks.
Namibia has confirmed its first cholera case in a decade, prompting heightened surveillance and preventive measures. The link to Angola’s cholera outbreak underscores the importance of regional coordination in disease management. As health authorities increase response efforts, the need for further vaccination resources is critical to curbing future outbreaks. Continuing access to clean water and sanitation remains vital in controlling cholera’s spread.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
