Niël Terblanché
Namibian health care services have been put on high alert to ensure swift action to safeguard public health after the first cholera case has been reported in the Kunene region.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services’ (MoHSS) executive director, Ben Nangombe, in a statement on Tuesday, said health care services are committed to preventing a widespread outbreak.
Nangome confirmed the first case of cholera in Namibia, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease in the country.
He said the case, identified in the Kunene Region, has prompted health authorities to activate a comprehensive response to contain any possible spread.
According to Nangombe, a 55-year-old woman presented herself at the Opuwo District Hospital on 2 March 2025 with symptoms of severe watery diarrhoea.
“A stool sample was collected the following day and sent for laboratory analysis. On 10 March, the results confirmed the presence of Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium responsible for cholera. The patient has since received treatment and was discharged in a stable condition,’ he said.
Nangombe reiterated that the case is being handled with urgency, with public health measures in place to prevent further infections.
“Initial investigations revealed that the patient had no recent travel history outside Namibia and had not attended large public gatherings that could have facilitated transmission,” he said.
Nangombe assured the public that efforts are underway to determine the exact source of infection and to prevent further cases.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease typically spread through contaminated water or food.
Without timely intervention, the disease can lead to severe dehydration and even death. However, health experts affirm that with appropriate treatment, fatality rates can be reduced to below one per cent.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) protocols, a single confirmed case with evidence of local transmission constitutes an outbreak, necessitating an immediate public health response.
Nangombe said that the health ministry has activated its regional response team and intensified surveillance efforts.
“Cholera outbreaks remain a threat in many regions, and with 17 African countries currently battling the disease, Namibia must remain vigilant. We are taking all necessary precautions to prevent further spread,” he said.
As part of its strategy, the health ministry is reinforcing community education on cholera prevention, safe water consumption, and hygiene practices.
Nangombe urged the public to take preventive measures, including boiling or treating water before consumption, practicing strict hand hygiene, and ensuring proper food storage and sanitation. “Individuals experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, or dehydration are advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility,” he urged.
He also said that there is no cause for panic but called for cooperation in adhering to control measures.
“We encourage all Namibians to remain calm and work together with health authorities to contain the situation,” he said.
Nangombe added that the ministry has set up a hotline for public inquiries and urges citizens to report any suspected cases to health authorities immediately.
