Rundu faces a serious malaria situation with 10 deaths among 2,092 cases since January through mid-April. Health officials declared malaria an outbreak last November when cases jumped across northern areas. Hospital staff admitted 465 people during this period. Most infections (1,762) originated locally, but 330 cases came from people seeking treatment near border regions.
Muyenga Pontianus, who tracks diseases at Rundu Intermediate Hospital, points to Muroro and Muhopi villages as problem spots. The Sauyemwa, Kehemu, and Ndama areas also report many cases. The hospital struggles with equipment shortages, especially quick malaria test kits. Finding patients becomes difficult because many give the wrong addresses. Transportation remains another major issue for healthcare workers trying to help affected communities.
The Kavango West region reported six malaria deaths between January and March this year. The Ministry of Health and Social Services continues to monitor the situation as the numbers climb. Medical teams want people to use prevention methods like bed nets and insect repellent. Early treatment can save lives when symptoms appear.
Muyenga Pontianus, who tracks diseases at Rundu Intermediate Hospital, points to Muroro and Muhopi villages as problem spots. The Sauyemwa, Kehemu, and Ndama areas also report many cases. The hospital struggles with equipment shortages, especially quick malaria test kits. Finding patients becomes difficult because many give the wrong addresses. Transportation remains another major issue for healthcare workers trying to help affected communities.
The Kavango West region reported six malaria deaths between January and March this year. The Ministry of Health and Social Services continues to monitor the situation as the numbers climb. Medical teams want people to use prevention methods like bed nets and insect repellent. Early treatment can save lives when symptoms appear.
