Staff Reporter
THE Minister of Health, Dr Esperance Luvindao, has linked the recent increase in malaria cases to the public’s reluctance to participate in the ministry’s Indoor Residual Spraying programme, particularly in the north-eastern parts of the country.
The minister made these remarks in Parliament, where she acknowledged that, while malaria is seasonal, there has been a significant rise in cases compared with previous seasons. She noted that, as of the latest reporting period on 25 January, malaria cases stood at 8,760.
She attributed this sharp increase to a lack of cooperation from the public, particularly households in the Zambezi, Kavango and Ohangwena regions, during the ministry’s indoor residual spraying campaigns.
“We need the backing of communities; we need them to take part. That is why we have said on multiple occasions that we encourage the public, when government officials come, to allow us to carry out indoor residual spraying. It does not harm them. It does not harm the children,” Luvindao said.
The minister further confirmed that the ministry has adequate medical supplies to treat malaria patients but emphasised that prevention remains critical.
“We have kits in stock. I’ve confirmed that. We have anti-malarias in stock. I’ve confirmed that,” she added.
Photo: Parliament of the Republic of Namibia
