In 1971, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) successfully eradicated smallpox, paving the way for decades of protection against related diseases like mpox. However, recent outbreaks of mpox in the country’s North Kivu province have posed challenges for humanitarian efforts due to ongoing conflict.
The DRC is set to receive mpox vaccines next week, with support pledged from Japan, Belgium, and the US. Despite financial constraints and regional spread, organizations like UNICEF and Jambo Lab are working to provide essential information and preventative measures to affected communities.
While Belgium, Japan, and the US commit to supplying vaccines, the conflict in the DRC continues to hinder response efforts. Despite recent truces and ceasefire agreements, the International Rescue Committee emphasizes the urgency of addressing the outbreak in refugee camps.
As the DRC prepares to receive the first batch of vaccines, the international community is called upon to act swiftly in combating the mpox outbreak and supporting vulnerable populations in the region.
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