Angola’s Cholera Outbreak: Death Toll Exceeds 300 Amid Health Crisis
Angola’s cholera outbreak has led to 313 deaths and 8,141 reported cases, with significant impacts across several provinces. The government is actively vaccinating and treating affected populations, while cholera remains a pressing global health threat linked to sanitation and hygiene issues.
The cholera outbreak in Angola has resulted in over 300 fatalities, with the current death toll reaching 313 and 8,141 reported cases as per the Ministry of Health. On March 21, Angola experienced 15 new deaths, marking one of the highest single-day tolls since January. The outbreak has been ongoing for more than 70 days, with daily case counts consistently exceeding 100 recently, particularly in provinces like Cuanza Norte and Benguela alongside Luanda.
Health Minister Silvia Lutucuta announced that vaccination efforts have reached 925,026 individuals, which represents 86% of the targeted population for cholera prevention. The government has also implemented 77 cholera treatment centers and established 64 oral rehydration centers to better address the public health crisis.
Cholera is defined by the World Health Organisation as an acute diarrheal infection resulting from ingesting food or water contaminated by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. This disease poses a significant global health risk and reflects various social and economic disparities, making safe water, sanitation, and hygiene access critical for prevention.
Typically, cholera symptoms range from mild to moderate diarrhea, treatable with oral rehydration solutions (ORS). Prompt treatment is essential, especially as cases may escalate into severe dehydration needing intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Many infected individuals remain asymptomatic yet can disperse the bacteria for several days.
Cholera outbreaks occur sporadically, influenced by conditions such as inadequate water access, poor sanitation, and hygiene-related challenges. Factors like conflict, displacement, and climate events contribute to the prevalence of cholera in affected regions. The World Health Organisation has noted a concerning rise in cholera cases worldwide, reporting over 535,321 cases and 4,007 deaths recorded in 2023 across 45 countries.
The cholera outbreak in Angola has triggered a significant public health response, with substantial mortality and infection rates. Vaccination efforts and the establishment of treatment centers are crucial in managing the crisis. Continued focus on sanitation, water access, and hygiene are vital to mitigating cholera outbreaks and addressing the underlying socio-economic issues that contribute to its spread.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
