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Luanda, Angola – February 19, 2025 – The death toll from Angola’s ongoing cholera outbreak has risen to 150, the country’s Health Ministry confirmed. Since the outbreak began in early January, a total of 4,235 people have been infected.
According to health officials, the disease has spread across 10 of Angola’s 21 provinces, with the worst-hit areas being the capital, Luanda, and the neighboring Bengo Province. These two regions account for 86 percent of the overall cases and 84 percent of the recorded deaths.
The outbreak has shown no signs of slowing down, with Angola recording over 100 new cholera cases daily since February 1, peaking at 295 cases on February 8. However, laboratory testing remains limited, with only about 20 samples analyzed per day, raising concerns about the true extent of the outbreak.
In an effort to curb the spread of the disease, over 925,000 people have been vaccinated, covering 86 percent of the targeted population, according to a health ministry bulletin released on February 10. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been actively supporting Angola’s health authorities in vaccination efforts, access to clean water, case management, and response team training.
Understanding Cholera and Its Impact
Cholera is a severe diarrhoeal disease caused by consuming food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. According to the WHO, cholera remains a global public health threat, often linked to inadequate sanitation and clean water access.
Most cholera cases result in mild or moderate diarrhoea, which can be treated with oral rehydration solution (ORS). However, in severe cases, dehydration can set in quickly, requiring urgent medical intervention, including intravenous fluids and antibiotics. If left untreated, cholera can be fatal within hours.
The disease can also spread asymptomatically, as infected individuals may carry and excrete bacteria for up to 10 days without showing symptoms. Symptoms typically appear between 12 hours and five days after infection.
Historically, cholera has been a persistent global health concern. The first recorded pandemic occurred in the 19th century, and since then, six more have taken place. The current, seventh pandemic began in South Asia in 1961 and continues to affect populations worldwide.
Response and Prevention Measures
Efforts to combat the outbreak in Angola include continued vaccination campaigns, improved access to safe drinking water, and public health awareness initiatives. WHO officials emphasize that access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene are crucial in preventing cholera and other waterborne diseases.
Health authorities are urging residents in affected areas to seek medical care immediately if they experience cholera symptoms, such as severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration.
Disclaimer
This article is based on reports from the Angolan Health Ministry, the WHO, and Xinhua news agency. The situation is evolving, and figures may change as more data becomes available. Readers are encouraged to follow official health advisories for the most up-to-date information on the outbreak and safety precautions.
