Namibia Confirms CCHF Outbreak After Fatal Case in Khomas Region
By TUW
The Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed an outbreak of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in the Khomas Region following the death of a patient who had been admitted with suspected symptoms earlier this week.
According to the ministry, the individual was taken to a Windhoek health facility on 18 November 2025 and passed away the following day. Subsequent laboratory tests verified the presence of the CCHF virus, prompting the ministry to launch emergency public health interventions.
Under both national health protocols and World Health Organization guidelines, a single laboratory-confirmed case of CCHF constitutes an outbreak, as the virus is highly infectious and can spread rapidly if not contained. The ministry emphasised that comprehensive measures—including contact tracing, surveillance, and community engagement—are already underway to prevent further transmission.
CCHF is a severe viral haemorrhagic disease carried by ticks, particularly those of the Hyalomma genus. It is endemic in parts of Africa and has no available vaccine for humans or animals. Past outbreaks recorded across the continent show hospital fatality rates ranging from 9% to 50%.
Namibia has experienced previous CCHF cases, most recently between 2016 and 2023, during which seven infections and four deaths were documented—a case fatality rate of 57%.
Health authorities are urging the public to remain calm but vigilant, stressing the importance of early reporting of symptoms and avoiding contact with ticks and potentially infected animals.
More updates will follow as the ministry continues its containment efforts.
