Mpox Crisis in DRC: Over 27,000 Cases, Vaccine Shortages

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a severe mpox outbreak, with over 27,000 cases and 1,100 deaths reported since January 2023. Vaccine shortages and limited resources are impeding the response. Despite efforts by organizations like Medair to educate affected communities, the crisis endures due to inadequate medical support and research funding, according to Reuters.

Residents in affected areas are contending with both the disease and severe shortages of medical resources. In the absence of adequate care, they resort to traditional remedies such as washing with boiled salty water and using Kitamatama plant leaves. This underscores the urgent need for effective disease education and communication.

Since the outbreak began, Congo has recorded approximately 27,000 cases and over 1,100 deaths, primarily among children. The virus has also spread to neighboring countries, including Sweden, the Philippines, and Pakistan, exacerbating the health crisis. The scarcity of vaccines and insufficient research funding remain significant obstacles.

Helen Rees, Co-Chair,  South Africa’s mpox incident management team, highlighted the global knowledge gap regarding the virus. “We still do not have a good understanding of mpox ... outbreaks, how it spreads, or the prevalence of asymptomatic cases,” she told Reuters.

Efforts to combat the outbreak include educational campaigns by organizations like Medair, which distribute leaflets with visual guides on preventing mpox and understanding its transmission. However, misinformation and limited resources continue to hinder response effort, highlights Reuters.