Namibia Reports First Cholera Case in Ten Years Amid Regional Outbreak

Namibia has reported its first cholera case in nearly 10 years, linked to a regional outbreak in Angola that has resulted in over 230 deaths. The infected individual has recovered, highlighting the need for Namibia to strengthen its health response to cholera. The cholera disease continues to pose significant challenges in sub-Saharan Africa, exacerbated by poor sanitation and poverty.

Namibia has reported its first cholera case in nearly a decade, specifically in the Kunene region which borders Angola, where an ongoing outbreak has resulted in at least 237 fatalities. Jean Kaseya, the Director General of the Africa Centre for Disease Control, confirmed this news during an online press briefing on Thursday, stating, “For the first time after almost 10 years… Namibia reported the first cholera case two days ago.”

The case involved a 55-year-old woman who exhibited symptoms of acute watery diarrhea. Fortunately, health authorities have reported that she has recovered and been discharged from the hospital. Kaseya emphasized the importance of this event as a significant wake-up call for Namibia to enhance its health system and improve responses to cholera outbreaks.

The cholera epidemic in Angola, which began last year, has caused substantial distress, impacting many citizens, particularly in the capital, Luanda. While cases and mortality rates are reportedly decreasing, Angola continues to grapple with high poverty levels and inadequate sanitation infrastructure, despite its oil wealth.

Cholera is caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium and typically spreads through contaminated food and water. This acute intestinal infection manifests as severe diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps, and can lead to death within hours if untreated. However, timely administration of oral rehydration therapy and antibiotics can effectively treat this condition.

The World Health Organization reported last year that cholera-related deaths surged by 71% compared to the previous year, noting a shift in affected regions. While the Middle East and Asia experienced a 32% decline in cases, sub-Saharan Africa witnessed a staggering 125% increase in cholera cases, according to WHO data.

The recent cholera case in Namibia serves as a critical reminder of public health vulnerabilities, especially nearby Angola, which is currently facing a cholera epidemic. With the recovery of the affected individual, the focus must shift to developing robust protocols to prevent further outbreaks. The alarming rise in cholera cases and fatalities, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, underscores the pressing need for improved sanitation and health infrastructure in the region.

Original Source: punchng.com