Haufiku shoots down swine flu panic

Health minister Bernard Haufiku announced yesterday in the National Assembly that four cases of hepatitis E have been confirmed in the DRC informal settlement of Swakopmund, while 22 cases are still awaiting laboratory confirmation. The minister also cautioned against spreading panic regarding H1N1, saying the recent outbreak, which has already claimed the life of a 45-year-old Rehoboth man, is not swine flu, only a seasonal occurrence of H1N1.He cautioned Namibians to be vigilant and report any suspected symptoms to their nearest health facility.Early last week health permanent secretary Petronella Masabane said in a statement that the first case of the H1N1 influenza virus was confirmed in a six-month-old baby boy on 22 June by a private health facility in Windhoek.People who are most at risk of contracting H1N1 include children under five years, elderly people over 65, pregnant women, people whose immune systems are compromised, such as those with HIV, tuberculosis and diabetes, and those with chronic underlying medical conditions.In a statement yesterday the ministry said to date five laboratory cases of H1N1 have been reported. The signs and symptoms of H1N1 include fever above 38 degrees, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, watery red eyes, body aches, headaches, fatigue, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. Masabane said Namibians should take preventative measures, including getting vaccinated against the H1N1 strain, which is the best protection against the disease. She also cautioned Namibians to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze, instead of using their hands. “Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Wash your hands often with soap and water; if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; germs spread that way,” said Masabane. JEMIMA BEUKES

Haufiku shoots down swine flu panic

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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Haufiku shoots down swine flu panic

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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