The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over a cholera disease outbreak in Angola in the past few months.
Since January 2025, Angola has been experiencing a substantial cholera outbreak. As of 23 March 2025, a total of 8543 cases and 329 deaths (Case Fatality Rate (CFR) 3.9%) have been reported, with one-third of the deaths occurring in the community. The outbreak has rapidly spread to 16 out of Angola’s 21 provinces, affecting individuals of all age groups, with the highest burden among those under 20 years old.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is a global public health threat and indicates inequity and lack of social and economic development. Access to safe water, basic sanitation and hygiene is essential to prevent cholera and other waterborne diseases.
The Ministry of Health, with support from WHO and partners, is managing the cholera outbreak response through case detection, deployment of rapid response teams, community engagement and a vaccination campaign.
Given the rapidly evolving outbreak, ongoing rainy season, and cross-border movement with neighbouring countries, WHO assesses the risk of further transmission in Angola and surrounding areas as very high.
