Maria David
THE Ministry of Health and Social Services has urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic following the confirmation of a cholera case in the Kunene Region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Health Executive Director Ben Nangombe confirmed that one case of cholera has been recorded after a 55-year-old female patient presented at Opuwo District Hospital with symptoms of watery diarrhea for two days.
Following her admission, Nangombe said that the patient received appropriate treatment as per established guidelines. A stool sample was collected last week and sent for laboratory testing, which confirmed a positive result for cholera (Vibrio cholerae, O1 antigen). The patient has since recovered and was discharged in stable condition.
“We encourage cooperation with public health officials and adherence to the control measures that have been established,” he said.
He added that preliminary investigations indicate the patient has no recent travel history outside the country and no known contact with individuals from abroad.
Furthermore, there is no record of the patient attending public gatherings such as funerals, weddings, or birthday parties that may have contributed to potential transmission.
Nangombe advised individuals presenting with symptoms related to cholera to seek immediate medical attention at their nearest health facility.
He explained that cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, typically transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
He emphasized that cholera is both preventable and treatable. If left untreated, the disease can lead to severe dehydration and become life-threatening, but with prompt and appropriate treatment, the fatality rate can be reduced to less than 1%.
Nangombe stressed that a robust community education campaign is underway to raise awareness about cholera prevention and hygiene practices.
