Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula says the country continues to record an increase of sexually transmitted infections, stating that in the past five years, on average 96 000 cases were reported at healthcare facilities countrywide.
He however expressed confidence that through interventions, it is possible to reduce the prevalence.
“Over the past five years, about 96 000 STI cases were recorded at our health facilities around the country every year although Namibia has made progress in reducing HIV infections,” Shangula said yesterday after launching the third national guidelines for addressing STIs.
Shangula said more than 30 different bacteria, viruses, and parasites are transmitted through sexual contact, including syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus and human papillomavirus.
“Sexually transmitted infections have a direct impact on sexual and reproductive health through stigmatisation, infertility, cancers, and pregnancy complications and they pose a significant public health challenge,” he stated.
Shangula added: “This guideline recognises the need to address the social and cultural aspects that contribute to the spread of sexually transmitted infections. We must work together to combat stigma, discrimination and misconceptions surrounding sexual health, ensuring that our interventions are inclusive, respectful and sensitive to the needs of all Namibians.”
He said many sexually transmitted infections occur because of decisions individuals make.
“I urge all sexually active persons to protect themselves from such infections. The simple decision of using a condom during sexual intercourse will spare you unnecessary discomfort and pain,” shared Shangula.
The US chief of mission, Tiffany Miller said STIs continue being a significant burden on public health.
“STIs also have the potential to disrupt economic activities. The impact of these infections cannot be underestimated as they do not only affect the physical health of the individuals but their social and emotional well-being as well,” she said.
Chief clinical mentor Dr Leonard Bikinesi said Namibia has reported a constant increase in the trend of STIs, notably urethral discharge syndrome.
“This is a public health challenge as STIs not only cause reproductive and psychological health impacts but also facilitate the acquisition of HIV,” he noted.