More than one million people have been vaccinated against cholera in three of the hardest-hit provinces in Angola. The five-day campaign aimed to complement the ongoing public health measures to halt the spread of the disease in the country. Health facilities and other public places such as markets, schools and churches have been used as vaccination posts. At the same time, mobile teams have visited communities to ensure widespread reach during the February campaign. At least 99.5% of the targeted population received the vaccine in a drive led by the Ministry of Health, with support from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Bank.

Two thousand teams have been dispatched, including health professionals and community volunteers, who are under the supervision of 500 coordinators. As they conducted the vaccinations, the health workers have also been providing information on the prevention measures while promoting access to safe drinking water, which is crucial in preventing the rise in new cases.  

Together with some key partners, such as the Red Cross and the private sector, the Government of Angola has managed to procure 978,000 vaccine doses. The joint effort also ensured the training of the 2,000 health workers on effective and safe administration of the vaccines. Oral vaccines are an additional tool for cholera control, complementing good hygiene and treatment of water for safe consumption. As of 11th February 2025, there have been 3,047 reported cases, of which 180 have resulted in deaths.

WHO and key partners have also supported other aspects of the cholera response in Angola, facilitating the drafting of a National Cholera Response Plan, procuring medical supplies, strengthening the capacity of health professionals, distributing water treatment solutions, implementing basic sanitation measures and community mobilisation.

(Source: WHO)