Namibia’s Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, has confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in the country. This follows the laboratory-confirmed case of a patient who was admitted to a health facility in Windhoek on November 18 with symptoms consistent with CCHF and subsequently died.
The World Health Organisation’s threshold for declaring an outbreak has been met, as a single laboratory-confirmed case requires urgent intervention due to the disease’s high fatality rate and potential for rapid spread. While the public is urged not to panic, the ministry is taking necessary measures to contain the spread of the virus.
CCHF is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever primarily transmitted through bites from infected ticks, particularly those of the Hyalomma species. Transmission can also occur through contact with infected livestock, contaminated animal blood or tissue during slaughtering and butchering, as well as human-to-human contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
Namibia has experienced previous outbreaks of CCHF, with cases reported between 2016 and 2023 resulting in seven infections and four deaths at a fatality rate of 57%. Symptoms of the disease often begin suddenly and may include fever, muscle pain, dizziness, headache, sore eyes, and sensitivity to light. In severe cases, patients may develop nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bleeding, and organ failure.
As there is currently no vaccine or specific cure for CCHF, early diagnosis and intensive supportive care are critical for improving survival rates. The ministry advises the public, particularly farmers, livestock workers, and people living in tick-infested areas, to take heightened precautions such as wearing protective clothing and regularly checking for ticks after outdoor activities.
To prevent person-to-person transmission, individuals are advised to avoid close contact with suspected or confirmed CCHF cases, practice strict hand hygiene, and use protective equipment when caring for sick individuals or exposed to bodily fluids. The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with relevant partners to strengthen surveillance and ensure that health facilities are fully prepared.
Individuals experiencing symptoms, particularly those who recently suffered tick bites or had close contact with animals, are urged to seek immediate medical attention. The ministry will provide further updates as the situation evolves, emphasizing the importance of prompt action to contain the spread of the disease.