Angola’s deadly cholera outbreak has spread to 17 of the country’s 21 provinces, killing nearly 600 people as health officials intensify efforts to curb infections.
Since the outbreak was declared in late January, more than 18,000 people have been infected, with a case fatality rate of 3.2 percent, far exceeding the acceptable threshold of one percent.
The rapid escalation of the epidemic has prompted an urgent response from health authorities and international agencies.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is ramping up its emergency response in the hard-hit province of Cuanza Sul where communities struggle with limited access to clean water and sanitation.
The WHO, working alongside Angola’s Ministry of Health, deployed a rapid response team to Cuanza Sul between April 27 and May 5.
The team trained over 150 health workers in cholera case management, supported the establishment of treatment centres, and led water safety initiatives, including chlorine preparation and water quality testing in the Cambongo River.
“Our work has helped health authorities to detect cases early, build local capacity and involve communities in prevention and response,” WHO Emergency Officer Kuku Muhao said.
Local officials have trained staff on the basic infrastructure needed to prevent new infections and move towards ending the cholera outbreak.
Community engagement has also been a critical focus of the intervention.
More than 1,470 people, including local volunteers, religious leaders and Red Cross members, have been trained to identify symptoms and promote preventive measures.
In addition, nearly 300 local leaders participated in awareness campaigns aimed at improving coordination between government institutions and civil society.
Despite these efforts, many communities remain vulnerable due to inadequate sanitation and difficulty in reaching remote areas with essential health services.
In response, authorities launched a campaign encouraging each household to construct a latrine, a key step in reducing the spread of the disease.
JN/APA