Staff Reporter
THE Minister of Health, Dr Esperance Luvindao, has confirmed that there is a cholera outbreak in Grootfontein, Otjozondjupa Region, where three cases have been confirmed.
“On 18 November 2025, the Otjozondjupa Region alerted the Ministry’s national surveillance apparatus regarding a suspected cholera case that presented at Grootfontein District Hospital. Samples were sent to the Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) and tested positive for Vibrio cholerae, the bacteria responsible for cholera. As of 24 November 2025, a total of six suspected cases of cholera have been recorded. Of these, three have been confirmed as cholera cases. All cases originate from an informal settlement in Grootfontein and have no history of recent travel, indicating local transmission,” the minister revealed.
She explained that cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. She highlighted that it is often associated with inadequate water supply, poor sanitation, and hygiene. The symptoms include severe watery diarrhoea and vomiting, which can lead to rapid dehydration.
“While most infected people do not develop symptoms, the bacteria are present in their faeces for 1-10 days after infection and are shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people,” Luvindao added.
The minister therefore urged those affected to seek help urgently, as cholera can be fatal if left untreated. She assured that the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation, and all necessary resources have been mobilised to safeguard the health and well-being of our communities.
“In accordance with the established protocols of the MoHSS and the World Health Organisation (WHO), a confirmed cholera outbreak is defined by the detection of a single, locally acquired, confirmed cholera case within a district. Consequently, I hereby officially declare a cholera outbreak in the Grootfontein District. While this declaration requires urgent attention, there is no need for panic. Cholera is a treatable condition, provided that members of the public understand the symptoms and preventive measures,” Luvindao added.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Contributed
