Kavango malaria cases, deaths spike
Kavango East health director Idah Mendai says there’s a significant increase in malaria cases in the region, with 13 185 cases and 26 deaths reported in the first 16 weeks of this year.
Mendai said this at a World Malaria Day event at Rundu on Friday.
“Andara recorded the highest number of cases with 7 787, Nyangana 2 925 cases, and Rundu 2 461 cases,” she said.
Mendai said the region is experiencing a significant malaria outbreak, increasing sharply since week 45 of 2024.
“A major contributing factor is the community’s delay in seeking medical attention,” she said.
Mendai called on stakeholders to fight malaria together, saying ‘the fight is not for us alone, it’s for everyone”.
Kavanho East governor Julius Hambyuka said ending would require collective action and determination.
“People should sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, and stay indoors during peak mosquito hours whenever possible,” Hambyuka said.
He urged the government, healthcare providers, community leaders, educators, and citizens to play a role fighting malaria.
“We are gathered at a crucial moment, one that requires unity, awareness, and action,” he said.
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