Cholera Outbreak in Angola: Urgent Response Required as Cases Surge

In January 2025, a cholera outbreak in Bairro Paraíso, Luanda, resulted in significant cases and fatalities. The Angola Ministry of Health initiated a national response plan, yet by late April, the crisis had escalated to over 16,000 cases and 558 deaths across multiple provinces.

In early January 2025, the Bairro Paraíso area in the Municipality of Cacuaco, located within Luanda Province, faced the onset of a cholera outbreak. The initial report on January 7 documented 25 suspected cases, tragically resulting in five fatalities. Following this, the situation escalated, with over 30 additional suspected cases identified by January 8.

In response to the alarming rise in cholera cases, the Ministry of Health convened a meeting on January 8 to introduce the 2025 National Response Plan aimed at combating the outbreak. Authorities have amped up efforts, directly appealing to partners, including the Angola Red Cross, for support in implementing the planned response strategies.

By the end of April 2025, records show that the cholera threat has intensified significantly, with a staggering 16,719 cases claimed so far and 558 lives lost. This results in a Case Fatality Rate of approximately 3.3%. Despite the efforts being made, the situation remains dire, as reports indicate that seventeen provinces are now grappling with active cases of cholera.

The cholera outbreak in Angola, beginning in January 2025, has rapidly worsened, with significant increases in both cases and fatalities. The government’s swift action in launching a national response plan highlights the severity of the situation, although the rising number of cases across multiple provinces suggests that more extensive support and resources will be crucial to regain control and mitigate further loss of life.

Original Source: reliefweb.int