Angola Reports Over 140 New Cholera Cases Amid Ongoing Outbreak

Angola has reported 141 new cholera cases, bringing total cases since January 2025 to 3,543, with 117 deaths. The vaccination campaign aims to immunize over 1 million people to curb the outbreak. The most affected group includes children aged two to five years, highlighting the need for immediate health interventions.

In the last 24 hours, Angola reported 141 new cholera cases across its provinces, particularly in Luanda, Bengo, Icolo and Bengo, Cuanza-Sul, and Malanje. The Ministry of Health also noted three deaths in Luanda, specifically two in Kilamba-Kiaxi and one in Sambizanga. Out of the new cases, 92 were reported in Luanda, 30 in Bengo, 13 in Icolo and Bengo, four in Cuanza-Sul, and two in Malanje.

Since the cholera outbreak began in January 2025, Angola has recorded 3,543 cases and 117 fatalities. Among the cases, the majority are located in Luanda (1,753 cases), followed by Bengo (1,297), Icolo and Bengo (446), and lesser cases across other provinces. The most affected demographic comprises young children aged two to five years, with 544 infections and 17 deaths.

To combat the outbreak, Angola initiated a cholera vaccination campaign on February 3rd, aiming to vaccinate 930,572 individuals, which has recently been increased to 1,079,476 following new cases. As of now, 925,573 individuals have been vaccinated, with the largest groups in Luanda (626,079), Icolo and Bengo (228,058), and Bengo (71,436).

Cholera, an intestinal infection caused by the vibrio cholerae bacterium, primarily manifests through symptoms such as severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. Preventative measures, including vaccination, are essential to mitigate further spread of the disease, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Angola continues to deal with a significant cholera outbreak, with rising case numbers and associated fatalities. Efforts are being made to curb the spread through extensive vaccination campaigns targeting vulnerable demographics. The public health situation requires ongoing monitoring and responsive health interventions to protect the community.

Original Source: allafrica.com