Namibia’s Decade-Long Cholera-Free Streak Ends with Confirmed Case
Namibia has reported its first cholera case in ten years, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
The patient, a 55-year-old woman, was hospitalized in the northwest Kunene region and has since recovered.
The case has prompted health officials to reinforce their systems and response strategies, particularly given the ongoing cholera outbreak in neighboring Angola.
Since January, Angola has reported 6,564 cholera cases and 237 deaths.
Despite Namibia’s patient having no recent travel history outside the country, health officials believe the case is linked to the Angola outbreak due to their shared border.
The Africa CDC has sent 2,000 oral cholera vaccines to Angola to protect healthcare workers, with additional resources needed to provide more doses.
Cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by contaminated food and water, and can be fatal within hours if left untreated.
Children under five are particularly vulnerable. Vaccines and access to clean water and sanitation are crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.
