WINDHOEK, June 6 (Xinhua) -- A measles outbreak has been confirmed in Erongo Region in central-western Namibia, the Ministry of Health and Social Services said in a statement Thursday.
The outbreak, which began in January, has seen a total of 93 suspected cases, said Ben Nangombe, executive director of the ministry.
"The first measles-positive case was confirmed from a cluster of 10 suspected cases seen in March, prompting the district to conduct contact tracing for additional cases in April 2024. Blood samples were drawn from suspected cases, which yielded an additional five more positive cases. The confirmed cases range in age between 7 years and 12 years," Nangombe said.
According to Nangombe, all confirmed cases are either stable or have recovered, with no hospitalizations or deaths reported.
In response to the outbreak, the ministry has activated a regional emergency response team and is conducting contact tracing and testing, he said, adding that health education is also being provided to students, teachers and the community while plans for supplemental immunization activities in the affected district are underway.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease, primarily affecting children. It spreads through direct contact and respiratory droplets.
Nangombe urged the public to practice good hygiene, avoid overcrowded places and ensure children are vaccinated against measles. ■