Shangula allays fears on Chinese flu
News in short
Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula yesterday afternoon convened a press briefing to address a recent surge in respiratory illnesses among children in the northern parts of China.
The briefing, part of the ministry's "commitment to transparency", highlighted the importance of monitoring global health developments, especially in light of past challenges like the Hepatitis E outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Shangula assured that, to date, ongoing Covid-19 and influenza surveillance activities in Namibia have not detected an increase in respiratory infections or associated hospitalisations.
The reported surge in China was attributed to factors such as the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, seasonal changes and the presence of known pathogens like influenza and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (which causes a form of pneumonia).
The minister emphasised that while the increase in respiratory infections in China aligns with seasonal expectations, there is currently no need for heightened concern in Namibia.
“The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages the public to remain vigilant by following preventive measures, including mask-wearing, hand hygiene and staying home when unwell,” he said.
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The briefing, part of the ministry's "commitment to transparency", highlighted the importance of monitoring global health developments, especially in light of past challenges like the Hepatitis E outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Shangula assured that, to date, ongoing Covid-19 and influenza surveillance activities in Namibia have not detected an increase in respiratory infections or associated hospitalisations.
The reported surge in China was attributed to factors such as the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, seasonal changes and the presence of known pathogens like influenza and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (which causes a form of pneumonia).
The minister emphasised that while the increase in respiratory infections in China aligns with seasonal expectations, there is currently no need for heightened concern in Namibia.
“The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages the public to remain vigilant by following preventive measures, including mask-wearing, hand hygiene and staying home when unwell,” he said.
[email protected]
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