Namibia Reports First Cholera Case in Nearly a Decade

Namibia has confirmed its first cholera case in ten years, originating from the Kunene region, bordering Angola. The 55-year-old patient has recovered, emphasizing the need for enhanced cholera response measures. Angola continues to battle a cholera epidemic that has resulted in 237 deaths, prompting health agencies to monitor and address ongoing sanitation issues in the region.

Namibia has reported its first cholera case in almost a decade, located in the Kunene region near Angola. This was announced by Jean Kaseya, the director general of the Africa CDC, during a briefing on Thursday. Remarkably, the affected individual, a 55-year-old woman, has since recovered and been discharged from the hospital, indicating the importance of enhanced response strategies for cholera management in Namibia.

The cholera outbreak in Angola has claimed over 237 lives, particularly in the capital city, Luanda, amidst challenging conditions of poverty and unsatisfactory sanitation. Despite these difficulties, the Africa CDC indicates a decline in both the number of cases and mortality rates. Cholera is caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium through contaminated food and water, leading to severe dehydration if untreated.

Cholera manifests through acute diarrhea, vomiting, and cramps and can be fatal within hours without prompt treatment. Fortunately, effective treatments including oral rehydration therapy and antibiotics are available for severe cases. The WHO reported a significant increase in global cholera deaths last year, stressing a shift in affected regions, with sub-Saharan Africa experiencing a dramatic 125% rise while other areas saw reductions in outbreaks.

The first cholera case in Namibia in nearly ten years serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing health challenges in the region. While the patient has recovered, this incident calls for Namibia to fortify its health response systems in light of the serious cholera epidemic in neighboring Angola. Ongoing monitoring and improvements in sanitation are essential to prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.

Original Source: punchng.com