Windhoek: Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, on Friday provided updates on Namibia's current public health situation, addressing concerns related to measles, Mpox, Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), cholera, polio, and the upcoming malaria transmission season. Luvindao urged the public to remain calm, assuring that the health ministry, supported by partners, is implementing comprehensive surveillance and response measures across all 14 regions.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the measles outbreak, first declared in Opuwo on 15 September, has now spread to 11 districts, with 564 suspected cases recorded by 20 November 2025. Of these, 198 cases were confirmed, and two deaths have been reported in Grootfontein and Okahao. Mass vaccination campaigns, including Maternal and Child Health Weeks, are ongoing, and parents are encouraged to ensure their children are fully immunized.
Regarding Mpox, the minister reported that the outbreak declared on 19 October 2025 remains contained to a family cluster in Swakopmund, with two confirmed cases and one probable case. All patients have recovered, and no active cases have been recorded for 34 days. Surveillance will continue for 90 days before the outbreak is declared over.
Luvindao confirmed an active CCHF outbreak declared on 22 November following the death of one patient. Contact monitoring and psychosocial support to the family are ongoing. Additionally, a cholera outbreak has been confirmed in the Grootfontein health district after three of five suspected cases tested positive, indicating community transmission. The minister called for a multisectoral response, emphasizing the importance of sanitation, clean water, and hygiene.
On polio, Luvindao announced a national polio event after poliovirus type 2 was detected in wastewater from Rundu, genetically linked to cases in Angola. No human cases have been detected in Namibia. Targeted vaccination campaigns are being prepared, and the importance of immunization to prevent paralysis and halt transmission was stressed.
With the malaria season approaching, the minister urged communities in endemic regions to cooperate with spraying teams, use treated nets, apply repellents, and seek early treatment for symptoms. Luvindao commended health workers for their commitment during multiple concurrent outbreaks, urging the public to remain vigilant, reject misinformation, and support national response efforts.