Angola’s Cholera Outbreak Escalates: 201 Lives Lost and Thousands Infected
The cholera outbreak in Angola has resulted in 201 deaths and 5,574 infections since January, affecting 13 provinces. The outbreak began in Luanda and has caused health alerts in newly affected areas. Urgent access to clean water and sanitation services is vital to combat cholera, a serious public health threat due to its rapid progression and historical impact globally.
In Angola, the Health Ministry has reported that the latest cholera outbreak has increased the death toll to 201, while a total of 5,574 individuals have been infected since early January. This outbreak spans across 13 of Angola’s 21 provinces, with the highest concentration of cases originating from the capital province of Luanda, followed closely by Bengo and Icolo e Bengo. Alarmingly, the province of Cunene has recently confirmed its first case, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced health services in the region.
Cholera, caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, poses a significant global public health threat, reflecting deep-seated inequities in social and economic development. Access to safe drinking water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene practices is crucial to prevent cholera outbreaks and other related waterborne diseases. Although most cholera cases present mild symptoms and can be treated with oral rehydration solutions (ORS), rapid medical intervention is essential as the disease can devolve into a severe condition requiring intravenous fluids and antibiotics.
Individuals infected with cholera may experience severe acute watery diarrhea that can lead to fatality within hours if not treated promptly. While asymptomatic carriers can spread the bacteria through feces for 1 to 10 days, symptoms typically manifest 12 hours to 5 days post-infection. Cholera has a long history, with its first pandemic recorded in the 19th century, followed by six subsequent pandemics. The ongoing seventh pandemic, which began in South Asia in 1961, persistently affects populations worldwide.
The cholera outbreak in Angola underscores the critical importance of access to clean water and sanitation in preventing infectious diseases. With 201 reported fatalities and thousands infected, this outbreak highlights ongoing public health challenges. Rapid response and continuous health education are essential to mitigate the impact of cholera and improve overall health outcomes.
Original Source: madhyamamonline.com
