Justicia Shipena
Namibia has recorded 8 760 confirmed malaria cases in the first four weeks of the year.
This is a sharp rise from 5 229 cases reported during the same period last year, representing an increase of 68%.
She said 604 malaria-related hospital admissions and 11 deaths have been recorded so far.
Health and social services minister Dr Esperance Luvindao announced this on Monday.
She said the Ministry of Health and Social Services has identified 20 health districts that have exceeded the malaria epidemic threshold.
These include Andara, Nyangana, Kamagoro, Nkurenkuru, Eenhana, Ongela, Okongo, Grootfontein, Katima Mulilo, Rundu, Tsumeb, Otjiwarongo, Omuthiya, Tsandi, Outapi, Okahao, Opuwo, Oshikuku and Oshakati.
The highest number of cases was reported in Katima Mulilo District, which recorded 1 448 cases, accounting for 17% of the total. This was followed by Outapi District with 1 287 cases, or 15%.
Luvindao said malaria transmission in Namibia is seasonal and usually rises between December and late April due to increased rainfall.
She urged Namibians, especially those travelling to the north and northeastern regions, to take steps to prevent infection.
Malaria is spread through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.
If treatment is delayed, it can lead to severe illness and death. Common symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle or joint pain, chills and sweating, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
Luvindao said the ministry continues to carry out indoor residual spraying using approved insecticides to reduce mosquito populations. Insecticide-treated mosquito nets are also being distributed free of charge in affected districts.
She urged residents to use insect repellents, sleep under mosquito nets, wear long-sleeved clothing and clear stagnant water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
“Community members experiencing the malaria-like symptoms are urged to immediately visit the nearest health facility for care,” she said.
Luvindao said Namibia’s borders with high-burden malaria countries such as Angola remain a concern.
She said that the outbreak was partly caused by cases reported among cattle herders who cross the border.
She said the ministry has placed surveillance systems on high alert to detect and monitor malaria cases across all regions.
“Community education campaigns are under way to raise awareness about prevention and control, while health facilities are being strengthened to manage cases effectively through training, guidelines and support,” she said.
Luvindao added that the ministry is working with communities, non-governmental organisations and development partners to ensure a coordinated response to contain the outbreak and protect public health.
