Cholera Outbreak Escalates in Angola: Urgent Response Required

In January 2025, a cholera outbreak in Bairro Paraíso, Cacuaco, Luanda, reported 25 suspected cases, including five deaths. By late April, cases surged to 16,719, with 558 fatalities and a Case Fatality Rate of 3.3%. Multiple provinces are affected, prompting a National Response Plan from the Ministry of Health and calls for support from partners.

In the Bairro Paraíso area of Cacuaco, Luanda Province, a concerning cholera outbreak surfaced on January 7, 2025, when 25 suspected cases were reported, including five fatalities. Following this initial spike, the number of suspected cases surged to over 30 by January 8. The Ministry of Health convened a meeting the same day to initiate the 2025 National Response Plan aimed at containing cholera. They urged partner organizations, notably the Angola Red Cross, to join in the fight against this escalating health crisis.

As of April 29, 2025, the cholera situation had worsened significantly, with reported cases skyrocketing to 16,719. Tragically, the death toll reached 558, indicating a Case Fatality Rate of 3.3%. This trend underscores the severity of the cholera outbreak, with a total of 17 provinces now acknowledging active cases. The response to this public health emergency remains critical as the number of infections continues to grow, necessitating urgent intervention and support from health organizations and local authorities.

The cholera outbreak in Angola highlights a dire public health crisis, escalating rapidly since early January 2025. With confirmed cases climbing dramatically and numerous deaths reported, the urgency for a coordinated response is clearer than ever. The Ministry of Health’s initiative to activate the National Response Plan and solicit assistance from partners such as the Angola Red Cross is a crucial step. Continued efforts will be vital to curtail this outbreak and protect affected communities across the country.

Original Source: reliefweb.int