A total of 29 malaria cases were reported at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital in December 2023.

This is a stark increase of 25 cases over the same month last year.

The Oshakati Intermediate Hospital's Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ruben Kanime, says of the 29 cases recorded in December 2023, 22 were tested at the hospital, while seven were referred from district hospitals.

The increase, he says, was sparked by good rain received earlier in the year.

Dr. Kanime stated that while the ministry has activated specific interventions to curb the spread of malaria, such as indoor residual spraying, communities are urged to promote community-based environmental management practices to reduce mosquito breeding sites, such as draining stagnant water, proper waste disposal, and habit modification.

The hospital Medical Superintendent further urged the residents to ensure that they practice personal protection by, among other measures, using bed nets, insect repellents, and long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin exposure.