The cholera outbreak in Angola has infected 5,574 individuals and resulted in 201 fatalities. The disease has spread to 13 out of 21 provinces, primarily originating in Luanda. The WHO highlights the importance of sanitation and access to clean water to combat cholera effectively.
The Angolan Health Ministry has reported that the cholera outbreak in the country has now resulted in 201 fatalities, with a total of 5,574 confirmed cases since early January. This outbreak has affected 13 of the country’s 21 provinces, with the capital, Luanda, recording the most cases followed by the neighboring provinces of Bengo and Icolo e Bengo. Recently, Cunene province has also reported its first case, prompting health officials to remain vigilant.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which is often transmitted through contaminated food or water. As indicated by the World Health Organization (WHO), cholera signifies a serious public health threat, highlighting issues of inequity and the lack of development in various regions. Ensuring access to safe water, decent sanitation, and good hygiene practices is critical to preventing cholera and other waterborne diseases.
While many individuals infected with cholera may experience mild or moderate symptoms manageable with oral rehydration solutions (ORS), the condition can escalate rapidly. Patients exhibiting severe symptoms require prompt treatment with intravenous fluids, ORS, and antibiotics to potentially save their lives. The disease can induce severe acute watery diarrhea, which can be fatal within hours if not treated correctly.
Most individuals infected do not exhibit noticeable symptoms but can still transmit the bacteria through their feces for a period of one to ten days. Symptoms generally manifest between 12 hours to five days following the infection, emphasizing the need for prompt identification and treatment. Cholera has been a known illness for centuries, with its first pandemic documented in the 19th century. The ongoing seventh pandemic, which commenced in South Asia in 1961, continues to impact populations worldwide.
In summary, the cholera outbreak in Angola remains a critical public health crisis, with over 5,500 infections and 201 deaths reported. The spread of the disease underscores the importance of sanitation and access to clean water, as cholera can escalate rapidly without proper treatment. Health officials must remain attentive to evolving cases and implement effective measures to control the outbreak.
Original Source: madhyamamonline.com
