Health / Medical

Malaria kills 28, leaves 840 in hospitals

Malaria has killed 28 people in Namibia since January 19, 2025 The health ministry says 840 others were admitted to hospitals. During the same period, the ministry confirmed 5,898 malaria cases. Health ministry executive director Ben Nangombe said malaria outbreaks exist in 20 of 26 malaria-endemic districts. Half of Namibia's population lives in malaria-endemic areas such as the Kavango, Kunene, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, Omusati, and Zambezi regions. According […]

25 January, 2025 31

Health / Medical

Managing New Year Stress: Marcella Katjijova Offers Tips for Self-Reflection and Balance

As we enter the new year, many feel exhausted and financially strained, with January often feeling overwhelming. Psychological counsellor Marcella Katjijova offers insights on managing these emotions through self-reflection, helping to set a healthier, more balanced path for the year ahead.

10 January, 2025 51

Health / Medical

Blood Crisis Looms as Supply Dips to Two Days

The country is facing an alarming blood shortage, with reserves critically low at only a two-day supply. Health ministry executive director Ben Nangombe has cautioned that this shortage will hinder the treatment of patients in state hospitals. NamBTS' Frieda Vatileni-Asino confirmed the dire situation, urging donors to step up as festive season disruptions strain medical resources.

9 January, 2025 27

Health / Medical

Human Metapneumovirus raises concern amid rapid spread in China

China is fighting the rapid spread of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness with symptoms resembling Covid-19. The outbreak is straining the country's healthcare system as the virus continues to mutate. Dr. Bernard Haufiku, former Health Minister, advised standard precautions such as avoiding crowds, wearing masks during travel, and strengthening surveillance systems. "Airplanes are sites for virus spread, so we must stay alert," Haufiku said, emphasizing the need for […]

8 January, 2025 37

Health / Medical

Dr. Shaun Whittaker Highlights Mental Wellness Amid Year-End Stress

With financial pressures and holiday demands taking a toll, the festive season can be challenging. Windhoek psychologist Dr. Shaun Whittaker encourages individuals to maintain focus on their mental health.

20 December, 2024 72

Health / Medical

Marcella Katjijova Highlights the Importance of Reflection and Mental Health for 2025

As the year winds down, psychological counselor Marcella Katjijova emphasizes the importance of reflection and seeking support in 2025. Speaking on the pressures faced during the past months, she encourages everyone to assess both achievements and challenges, suggesting self-reflection as a key step toward mental well-being in the year ahead. Katjijova urges individuals to prioritize their mental health daily, beyond awareness days, and to build realistic goals for a […]

19 December, 2024 48

Health / Medical

First severe bird flu case reported in US

A patient in the US state of Louisiana has been hospitalized with the H5N1 bird flu virus. It's the country's first severe case and the first known case stemming from a non-commercial poultry flock. Ira Spitzer has more.

19 December, 2024 50

Health / Medical

Health Ministry Addresses Cyber Attack on Pharmaceutical Data

The Health and Social Services ministry has reported a cyber-attack on December 13, which breached its Pharmaceutical Management Information System dashboard. The breach exposed aggregated data on medicine stock levels and healthcare worker contact details but did not compromise personal patient information. The server was isolated to prevent further damage, and ongoing investigations are being conducted. To prevent future attacks, the Ministry plans to upgrade security measures, restrict access, and […]

18 December, 2024 28

Health / Medical

Last Blood Donation Clinics of the Year Set for December 14

The final Saturday clinics for the year will be held on tomorrow 14 December, in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Okahandja, and Oshakati, with donations accepted from 08:00 to 15:00 at various locations. The Namibia Blood Transfusion Service encourages all healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to donate, and in return, donors will receive a festive gift as a token of appreciation for their lifesaving contribution. NamBTS' Zita Tobin:

13 December, 2024 39