Africa-Press – Namibia. THE Minister of Health, Dr Esperance Luvindao, has announced that a total of 198 measles cases have been confirmed in the country as of 20 November 2025.
“As you recall, on 15 September 2025, I declared a measles outbreak originating in the Opuwo health district, Kunene region. Since then, the outbreak has spread to ten additional districts, including Rundu, Oshakati, Engela, Khorixas, Grootfontein, Otjiwarongo, Onandjokwe, Katima Mulilo, Okahao, and Ncamagoro. As of 20 November 2025, our surveillance teams have recorded 564 suspected cases. 198 cases were confirmed positive for measles (149 via laboratory testing and 49 through epidemiological links) 239 cases tested negative, 12 cases were indeterminate (meaning results were inconclusive), and results are still pending for 115 suspected cases. Regrettably, I must inform the nation that we have lost two lives to this measles outbreak in the Grootfontein and Okahao districts,” the minister announced.
Luvindao made these remarks during a recent press briefing regarding the public health outbreaks in the country.
“Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant threat to public health. It can be particularly dangerous for children under the age of five, who are at the highest risk of developing life-threatening complications such as severe respiratory infections,” she explained.
The minister urged the public to remain calm, assuring them that the ministry, with the support of stakeholders, is implementing comprehensive response measures. This includes the mass vaccination campaign in Opuwo, which targeted children aged 6 months to 15 years and achieved an 85% coverage rate. According to the minister, similar targeted campaigns have been conducted in other affected areas.
“Furthermore, the Maternal and Child Health Weeks, whereby targeted vaccinations are given to all children especially those who have missed their vaccinations, are currently ongoing nationwide throughout this month of November 2025. I implore all parents and guardians to ensure your children are fully vaccinated. Do not wait. These vaccines save lives,” the minister added.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
