In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), health workers like Jeanine Muhavi and Paulin Tshimanga are receiving the mpox vaccine to protect themselves from the disease. The vaccination campaign targeting high-risk sectors like butchers and hunters aims to stem the spread of the virus.
The DRC, facing widespread poverty and insecurity, has seen over 31,000 suspected cases of mpox this year, with more than 1,000 deaths recorded, mostly among children. The scarcity of resources and infrastructure hampers efforts to control the disease, especially in overcrowded refugee camps.
“Great opportunity to stop this epidemic”
Justine Masika, a lab worker, and other frontline workers are embracing the vaccine as a crucial tool to halt the epidemic. With doses donated by various countries, the DRC aims to vaccinate 48,000 people in North Kivu province to curb the high risk of infection.
“In our neighbourhood there have been several people who have fallen ill and it is very scary. The only way to protect ourselves is with the vaccine”
Sandrine Mutombo, resident of North Kivu province
The vaccination strategy involves two doses for adults and one for children under 18. The campaign also focuses on raising awareness about the disease and preventive measures.
As the outbreak of mpox continues to threaten African countries, efforts to secure more vaccines and educate the population are crucial to containing the virus.