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NEW COVID-19 cases in Namibia reached a new record high number after 585 people had positive test results from a specimen batch of only 2 676.<\/p>\n
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At 22%, the positivity ratio observed from specimens analysed by the various laboratories is the cause for extreme concern for health authorities in Namibia.<\/p>\n
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The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, while announcing the shocking COVID-19 statistics again beseeched everyone to observe and strictly practice health measures to protect themselves and others from contracting the disease.<\/p>\n
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Of the 585 new cases registered in Namibia, 342 people in Windhoek had positive results, 79 in the Opuwo health district, 34 in Swakopmund, 30 in Walvis Bay, 23 in Otjiwarongo, 11 in Oshakati, eight in Grootfontein, seven each in Karasburg and Keetmanshoop, six each in Usakos, Okahandja, Rehoboth, Mariental, and Rundu, five in Tsumeb, three in Goabis, two each in Okakarara and L\u00fcderitz, while one person each in Katima Mulilo and Outjo also had positive test results.<\/p>\n
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Dr. Shangula said the gender distribution of the cases is 297 women and 288 men, of which the youngest patient is a seven-month-old baby and the oldest is an 86-year-old pensioner.<\/p>\n
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The health minister said the 80 new cases from the Kunene Region are of extreme concern.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThis unprecedented situation calls for change in our mindset towards the COVID-19 pandemic, as we are still observing non-adherence to COVID-19 regulations. During this festive season, we continue to urge all citizens to adhere to the COVID-19 prevention measures. Clean and sanitize your hands regularly, avoid public gatherings, maintain a safe distance and wear your mask properly at all times,\u201d Dr. Shangula implored the nation.<\/p>\n
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The health minister announced the deaths of three more people.<\/p>\n
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He said that two 40-year-old women from Windhoek and a 55-year-old woman from Karasburg passed away on Sunday.<\/p>\n
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He, however, did not say if the deceased persons were hospitalised at the time of their deaths.<\/p>\n
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The latest fatalities ascribed to COVID-19 increased the death toll in Namibia to 180.<\/p>\n
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According to Dr. Shangula, 74 people were declared healthy and were allowed to continue with their everyday lives.<\/p>\n
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He said that the number of people that are currently hospitalised as a result of contracting COVID-19 has increased to 164, of which 30 people are receiving care in the Intensive Care Units of various hospitals.<\/p>\n
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