Windhoek
The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Bernard Haufiku, has called on Namibians travelling to Angola to get vaccinated against yellow fever because of its outbreak in Angola. “Once you have the vaccine you are covered,” said Haufiku who spoke at a ceremonious handover of medical supplies to the government of Angola yesterday. Angola has an outbreak of yellow fever with the latest reports stating that at least 250 people died of the disease since December last year. The disease is spread through mosquito bites and is potentially fatal. But it is not spread by human contact. Haufiku explained that Namibians are especially at risk of the disease because of the shared border with Angola. In addition, many Angolans travel to Namibia, said Haufiku.
“We are at risk (of yellow fever) as a country, that we cannot deny,” said Haufiku, who also pointed out that measures are in place at the country’s airports.
Symptoms of yellow fever include muscle aches, headache and vomiting. Haufiku said it’s imperative for people with yellow fever symptoms to seek medical attention as soon as possible. “What is most recommended is a vaccine,” emphasised Haufiku, who explained that there is no cure as such for the disease. However, yellow fever symptoms can be treated.
Meanwhile, the health ministry donated medical supplies worth N$178 000 to the government of Angola. The medical supplies include Panado syrup, Panado tablets and syringes. The health minister stressed the medical supplies are meant to ease the symptoms of yellow fewer and not to treat it. The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maureen Hinda, received the consignment on behalf of the Angolan government, and thanked the health ministry for the prompt response to the plight of the Angolan people. “The outbreak of yellow fewer poses a potential health crisis if not contained,” Hinda said at the vaccine handover.