Angola Faces Cholera Crisis: Response Efforts Underway Following Rising Cases

In January 2025, Bairro Paraíso in Luanda, Angola, reported a cholera outbreak with 25 suspected cases and 5 fatalities. The situation escalated, prompting the Ministry of Health to launch a national response plan. By April 2025, cases rose to 16,719 with 558 deaths across 17 provinces.

In early January 2025, the neighborhood of Bairro Paraíso in the Cacuaco Municipality, located in the Luanda Province of Angola, emerged as a hotbed for cholera infections. On January 7, local health officials confirmed 25 suspected cases, which unfortunately included five fatalities. Just one day later, the situation worsened as the Ministry of Health documented over 30 additional cases.

By January 8, a response meeting was convened by health authorities to initiate the 2025 National Response Plan aimed at combating the cholera outbreak. In this critical gathering, the Ministry emphasized the urgent need for support from various partners, especially calling upon organizations like the Angola Red Cross to enhance the response efforts. This call reflects the rising concern within health circles as the crisis escalates.

As of late April 2025, the cholera outbreak has reached alarming heights, with reported cases climbing to 16,719 and the death toll rising to 558. The case fatality rate currently stands at 3.3%, indicating the severity of the illness in the community. The persistence of the outbreak is evident, as active cholera cases have been identified across 17 provinces, demonstrating the widespread impact of this health crisis on the region.

In summary, Angola is grappling with a cholera outbreak that began in January 2025, with the situation deteriorating significantly over the months. The Ministry of Health’s call for immediate support underscores the urgency for effective intervention. With thousands of cases reported and numerous fatalities, a coordinated response involving various partners is crucial to address the public health crisis effectively.

Original Source: reliefweb.int