Namibia declares cholera outbreak over in Grootfontein and Opuwo districts

Health minister Esperance Luvindao announced the containment after more than 28 days without new confirmed cases, aligning with international public health standards and epidemiological best practices. The outbreak was initially declared on 27 November 2025, following a confirmed case in Grootfontein on 19 November 2025, with additional cases in Opuwo by 26 January. A total of 282 suspected cases were reported, with 82 laboratory-confirmed cases 52 in Grootfontein and 30 in Opuwo.

One fatality occurred in Opuwo. The successful containment was attributed to a coordinated multi-sectoral response involving the government of Namibia and development partners, including the World Health Organisation, the United States Centres for Disease Control, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the Robert Koch Institute. Minister Luvindao thanked various government sectors and regional authorities for their support.

Despite the end of the current outbreak, Luvindao cautioned that the threat of cholera persists and urged the public to maintain high hygiene standards, use safe drinking water, ensure proper sanitation, and seek early medical attention to prevent resurgence.