Namibia battles surge in Malaria cases as death toll rises to 95
Namibia has recorded 56,130 malaria patients and 95 casualties since the start of the current malaria season in December 2024, Health Minister Esperance Luvindao said.
Over 56,000 Malaria Cases Reported Since December
Namibia is facing a significant health crisis with 56,130 confirmed malaria cases and 95 related deaths recorded since the onset of the current malaria season in December 2024. Health Minister Esperance Luvindao delivered the sobering update during a public address in Oshakati, a town in the country’s north.
All 10 of Namibia’s malaria-endemic regions — predominantly located in the northern and northeastern parts — have been impacted. These include Zambezi, Kavango East and West, Ohangwena, Omusati, and Oshikoto.
Hospitalisations and Local Transmission on the Rise
By April 20, at least 5,226 of the reported cases had required hospitalisation. Minister Luvindao noted that a staggering 81% of these cases were due to local transmission, reflecting an urgent need for strengthened preventative measures.
Favourable breeding conditions during Namibia’s rainy season — from December to May — have been a major driver of the outbreak. Mosquito populations have thrived, exacerbating the spread of the disease.
Control Measures and Public Appeal
In response, the Namibian government has rolled out several malaria control interventions. These include:
- Indoor residual spraying
- Larviciding at mosquito breeding sites
- Distribution of insecticide-treated nets, especially to vulnerable groups such as cattle herders and residents in unsprayed areas
Luvindao stressed the importance of public participation in controlling the spread: “Community engagement is vital in the fight against malaria. We encourage the public to eliminate stagnant water sources, use mosquito repellents, and sleep under treated nets.”
Call for Broader Support and Elimination Goals
The minister also called on development partners, employers, and community leaders to actively support the country’s goal of eliminating malaria by 2027.
Understanding Malaria and Its Risks
According to the World Health Organization, malaria is a life-threatening but preventable and curable disease spread by infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. While mild symptoms include fever, chills, and headaches, the disease can escalate to severe symptoms like seizures, confusion, and difficulty breathing if not promptly treated.
High-risk groups include infants, young children, pregnant women, travellers, and people with compromised immune systems such as those with HIV/AIDS.
Health authorities continue to urge the public to seek immediate medical attention upon experiencing symptoms and to adopt preventive measures to curb further spread.