Mpox Outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo: A Fight Against Time

The Munigi Health Center in Nyiragongo territory, North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at the forefront of battling the mpox outbreak. Since June 13, 2024, the health center has received 281 suspected cases, with the majority being children under the age of ten, totaling more than 500 cases in North Kivu alone.

Medical staff are working tirelessly to treat patients like Nyota Aziza, who is under care at the center. Medair organization has set up a site at Nyiragongo General Hospital, treating nearly ten new patients each day following national protocols.

The outbreak has hit DRC the hardest, with thousands of suspected cases and hundreds of lives claimed. Health agents are spreading awareness, emphasizing hygiene rules and early reporting of symptoms to prevent further spread.

Vaccines are crucial in fighting the epidemic, with 10,000 doses arriving in Nigeria this week. However, African countries are facing challenges in accessing vaccines, highlighting the need for international solidarity to combat the disease effectively.

As the fight against mpox continues, the collaboration of governments, NGOs, and international partners is essential to protect vulnerable populations and contain the outbreak.

Ruth Alonga in Goma, Jean Noel Ba-Mweze in Kinshasa and Tomi Oladipo contributed to this article

Edited by: Chrispin Mwakideu

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