Angola Faces Severe Cholera Outbreak as Response Efforts Intensify

Angola is facing a severe cholera outbreak, with over 16,000 cases and 558 deaths reported as of late April 2025. The outbreak started in Bairro Paraíso on January 7, 2025, and continues to affect multiple provinces despite government and Red Cross response efforts. The mortality rate is concerning at 3.3%, underlining the urgent need for improved public health measures.

On January 7, 2025, Bairro Paraíso in the Municipality of Cacuaco, located in Luanda Province, reported 25 suspected cases of cholera, with five fatalities attributed to the outbreak. By January 8, the number of potential cases surged to over 30. In response to the alarming rise, the Ministry of Health convened a meeting on January 8 to initiate the 2025 National Response Plan aimed at controlling cholera, calling on partners such as the Angola Red Cross for support in executing the plan.

As of April 29, 2025, the cholera situation in Angola had reached critical levels, with confirmed cases escalating to 16,719, resulting in 558 deaths. The case fatality rate stands at 3.3%, highlighting the severity of the outbreak. The situation appears to remain dire as reports indicate active cholera cases across 17 provinces, suggesting the response efforts have struggled to contain the spread effectively.

Experts express concern that the continued increase in cases and mortality suggests a failure to address underlying infrastructure and public health challenges that facilitate such outbreaks. Humanitarian organizations, including the Angola Red Cross, are mobilizing resources but face significant hurdles in reaching affected populations, particularly in remote areas.

Efforts by health authorities to control the outbreak emphasize the need for urgent interventions, including improved sanitation and access to clean water. Public health messaging is crucial at this time to educate communities on prevention measures, highlighting the importance of handwashing and safe food practices. The government and its partners must collaborate closely to implement these strategies effectively to curb the ongoing cholera crisis.

The cholera outbreak in Angola has escalated rapidly, with over 16,000 cases reported and a significant death toll. The government has initiated a response plan, but the situation remains critical, with widespread active cases across numerous provinces. Immediate and coordinated efforts are essential to manage both the outbreak and the underlying health infrastructure deficiencies.

Original Source: reliefweb.int