WHO Launches Emergency Response as Mpox Outbreak Resurges in DRC
The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated an emergency response to tackle a significant resurgence of the Mpox virus, also known as monkeypox, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The DRC has emerged as the epicenter of this outbreak, with over 18,000 cases reported and 500 fatalities, primarily affecting children.
The resurgence is exacerbated by ongoing insurgency in the region, complicating efforts to reach affected populations. Dr. Samuel Boland, WHO’s incident manager for Mpox in Africa, emphasized the organization’s adaptation of new strategies to combat the outbreak in conflict-hit areas.
“We are leveraging tools like radio to reach communities that are inaccessible by foot. Our personnel are already on the ground, prepared to support the response in these challenging areas,” Dr. Boland said.
The DRC government anticipates the arrival of vaccine doses next week, with WHO stressing the urgent need for vaccination to curb the spread.
“The focus is on getting vaccines into the hands of those who need them most. We’ve developed national vaccination plans to ensure rapid distribution as soon as the vaccines arrive,” Dr. Boland added.
Last week, WHO declared Mpox a global health emergency, underscoring the importance of prevention through public awareness. “Stopping transmission doesn’t solely rely on vaccination; it’s about people recognizing symptoms and avoiding physical contact if they are unwell,” Dr. Boland noted.
While WHO reassures the public that the Mpox outbreak is not another COVID-19, the global health body is mobilizing resources to prevent further spread.
Additional source: AP
