By: Selma Taapopi 

The Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed six measles cases among primary school learners from Okongue village in Erongo region. In response, the ministry has activated public health measures and launched a contact tracing investigation following the virus outbreak in the region. Since January this year, the ministry has investigated 39 suspected cases, with 33 of these reported from Okongue Village, located 120 km from Omaruru. 

The confirmed outbreak is guided by the third edition of the national integrated disease surveillance and response guidelines which indicates that two or more measles confirmed cases reported in one geographical area within a period of one month, constitutes an outbreak. 

According to the Ministry’s control public relations officer Walters Kamaya, the ministry has instituted public health actions to respond to the outbreak such as activating a regional emergency response team. 

“A regional emergency response team was activated, contact tracing of cases and testing of contacts is ongoing. Health education is provided to learners and teachers at the primary school hostel and the community. The Ministry is planning to conduct supplementary immunisation activities in the affected district,” stated Kamaya, while adding that preventative measures include maintaining good hygiene and sanitation. 

The first symptom of the virus which shows up 10 to 12 days after exposure, is a high fever that lasts four to seven days. Other symptoms included a runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the early stage. 

“No specific treatment exits for measles virus, severe complications from measles can be reduced through supportive care that ensures good nutrition, adequate fluid intake and treatment of other viruses,” stated Kamaya. 

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