Niël Terblanché
In the wake of a concerning surge in COVID-19 cases cantered in Rehoboth, Hardap Region, health officials are calling for calm and adherence to preventative measures.
Ben Nangombe, the Executive Director of Health and Social Services, reiterated that the recent cases detected in Rehoboth last week are localized and under control, with affected individuals receiving proper supervision.
Despite the repeal of COVID-19 protocols in 2022, Nangombe did, however, urge the public to persist with basic precautions, including mask-wearing in crowded areas, regular handwashing, and sanitization.
He reassured the public that mandatory measures to curb COVID-19 have not been reinstated but stressed the importance of maintaining basic protocols and voluntary testing to monitor one’s health status.
This alert follows the Ministry of Health and Social Services’ report of a spike in cases in Rehoboth, pinpointing schools as the primary hotspots.
As of February 8, 2024, 20 cases have been confirmed, with Dr Lemmer High School being significantly affected.
With 11 recoveries and 9 active cases, the local health authorities are on high alert, particularly concerning the potential for virus transmission in crowded settings such as schools.
At the time of the surge, acting Hardap Regional Health Director, Dr Benville Platt, has called for strict adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols within educational institutions to mitigate further spread.
In light of the outbreak, the regional health authority has recommended the postponement of all inter-school sporting events in Rehoboth, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for preventive action.
The initial outbreak was traced back to a teacher at Saint Joseph’s Primary School and a Grade 11 learner from Dr Lemmer High School, prompting a broader reinforcement of health guidelines across educational facilities in the region.
Nangombe did say that the Health Directorate’s announcement has heightened community awareness and commitment to combating the spread of the virus.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the pandemic’s lingering threat and the imperative need for continued vigilance, cooperation, and compliance with health guidelines to protect the collective well-being of the community.
