Namibia Declares End of Mpox and CCHF Outbreaks
By TUW
The Ministry of Health and Social Services has officially confirmed that the recent outbreaks of Mpox and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Namibia have been successfully contained, bringing an end to both public health incidents.
In a media statement issued this week, Health Minister Esperance Luvindao announced that the Mpox outbreak in the Swakopmund District of the Erongo Region and the CCHF outbreak in the Omaheke Region have officially been declared over following a period with no new infections.
Health authorities reported that the Mpox outbreak was first identified in October 2025 after a laboratory-confirmed case was detected. A total of three confirmed infections were recorded in the country. All affected patients recovered and were discharged after receiving treatment, and no deaths linked to the virus were reported. Officials indicated that the last confirmed case was recorded in October 2025, and after more than 90 days without additional infections, the outbreak was considered contained in line with international health guidelines.
Meanwhile, the CCHF outbreak in the Omaheke Region involved a single confirmed case identified in November 2025. The patient unfortunately died from the disease, which is commonly transmitted through tick bites or contact with infected animals or bodily fluids. Health authorities monitored all individuals who had contact with the patient, and no additional infections were recorded during the observation period.
The Ministry explained that both outbreaks were brought under control through coordinated public health measures, including active surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing, and community awareness campaigns. Veterinary assessments and tick-control measures were also implemented to reduce the risk of further infections.
Authorities say national surveillance systems remain active despite the declaration, with health officials continuing to monitor for any potential new cases.
The Ministry also expressed appreciation to healthcare workers, government institutions, development partners, community leaders, and the media for their role in helping to contain the outbreaks and ensuring public awareness.
Health officials emphasized that Namibia remains prepared to respond quickly should any future cases arise.
