The Ministry of Health and Social Services has declared a cholera outbreak in Opuwo in the Kunene Region.

This follows the confirmation of six localised cases that affected one household. 

Preliminary results of two more suspected cases came back negative. 

As of Wednesday, eight suspected cholera cases were reported, with six, including one fatality, being from the same household.

The surviving patients all remain in stable condition in the isolation ward of Opuwo District Hospital.

Health Minister Dr. Esperance Luvindao affirmed that preliminary tests for the latest two suspected cases returned negative.

She said the ministry had bolstered its core capacity, in line with International Health Regulations, to prevent, timely detect, and respond to public health concerns in the country.

In response to this outbreak, the ministry has activated an Incident Management System to ensure a coordinated multi-sectoral response.

Additionally, the ministry has in place response actions that include the deployment of rapid response teams to affected areas to provide immediate medical assistance.

Dr. Luvindao urged the public to adhere to precautionary health measures, such as using treated or boiled water for drinking and food preparation. 

Other measures to reduce the risk of cholera infection include washing hands with soap and clean water before eating and after using the toilet, and avoiding consuming food from unsafe sources.

The public is also encouraged to immediately seek medical care if they experience watery diarrhoea or vomiting.

The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and will keep the public informed of new developments.