Honouring nurses and midwives

Celebrated every year with different themes ranging from mental health awareness, ageing, and health, as well as healthy blood pressure, World Health Day was this time around celebrated on 7 April around the theme #SupportNursesAndMidwives.

The day is aimed at highlighting the work of nurses and midwives worldwide while advocating for better working conditions for them to be able to carry out their duties. 

“Nurses are the unsung heroes of the COVID-19 response. The invaluable role they have played is a testimony of their sacrifice, courage, and commitment to a healthier and safer world,” said Dr. Takeshi Kasai, WHO regional director for the Western Pacific. 

Namibian Facts and Figures from the WHO State of the World’s Nursing Report

• There are 2334 nursing professionals in the Namibian health sector
• 269 nursing graduates each year
• Nurses account for 72.7% of the health workforce
• There are 19.5 nurses for every 10 000 Namibians
• There will be an estimated shortage of 2000 – 3000 nurses projected for the year 2030

Here’s how you can support the 28million nursing professionals around the world:

Stay home!

Help nurses and healthcare professionals avoid unnecessary strain by doing your part in reducing the spread of the virus. Stay home, practice social distancing and good hygiene.

Know when to go to the hospital/health centre

When you show symptoms of COVID-19, call the toll-free number: 0800100100