Namibia Reports First Cholera Case in a Decade Amid Regional Concerns

Namibia has reported its first cholera case in ten years, prompting alerts from the Africa CDC. The affected patient, a 55-year-old woman, has recovered. The case is connected to an outbreak in Angola, raising concerns about cross-border transmission, despite Angola’s declining infection rates. Health authorities in Namibia are now on high alert to prevent further infections.

Namibia has confirmed its first case of cholera in a decade, as verified by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The patient, a 55-year-old woman from the Kunene region, exhibited diarrhoea symptoms but has since recovered and been discharged from the hospital. Officials have intensified disease surveillance and response measures despite her not having any recent travel outside the country.

Africa CDC director Jean Kaseya suggested a connection between the Namibian case and the ongoing cholera outbreak in Angola, which has resulted in 6,564 infections and 237 deaths since the start of the year. The proximity of Kunene to Angola increases the potential for cross-border transmission, although there are signs that Angola’s infection rates are decreasing, and efforts are being made to contain the outbreak.

In an effort to mitigate the situation, the Africa CDC has supplied 2,000 oral cholera vaccines to Angola for healthcare workers, while highlighting the necessity for additional resources to expand vaccine distribution efforts. Cholera, a serious disease caused by bacteria present in contaminated food and water, can lead to rapid dehydration and death if untreated. Children under five remain particularly at risk.

The importance of clean water, sanitation, and vaccination is critical in preventing cholera outbreaks. Despite a reported 12% decrease in cholera cases across Africa in 2024, fatalities have risen by 3.1%. Recent data indicates that Africa reported the highest number of cholera cases and deaths globally in January, as reflected by a WHO report.

Following the cholera case, Namibian health authorities remain vigilant and have reinforced measures to prevent further infections in the region.

In summary, Namibia’s first cholera case in a decade has raised alarms, prompting immediate action from health authorities and the Africa CDC. The situation highlights the threat of cross-border disease transmission from Angola’s cholera outbreak. Strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing vaccination efforts, and ensuring access to clean water are imperative in managing and preventing future outbreaks.

Original Source: www.arise.tv