Eastern DR Congo Crisis Increases Risk of Mpox Transmission, WHO Chief Warns
2025-02-03 12:00
Geneva – The ongoing humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is increasing the risk of mpox transmission, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief warned today.
Conflict and Displacement Driving Transmission
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the conflict and displacement resulting from the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC are creating conditions that favor the spread of mpox.
“People are fleeing their homes, living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, and lacking access to basic healthcare,” said Dr. Tedros. “These conditions provide fertile ground for the transmission of infectious diseases, including mpox.”
Mpox is a viral infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. The virus is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected animals or humans.
Outbreak in Kivu Region
The WHO has reported an ongoing outbreak of mpox in the Kivu region of eastern DRC, where over 1,000 cases have been confirmed. The outbreak is primarily affecting people who have fled their homes due to violence and displacement.
“The situation in eastern DRC is extremely concerning,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “The ongoing conflict and displacement are making it difficult to contain the outbreak and provide essential health services to those in need.”
Call for Action
The WHO is calling for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC and mitigate the risk of further mpox transmission. The organization is working with local health authorities to strengthen surveillance, provide treatment, and raise awareness about the disease.
“We need to do everything we can to prevent the spread of mpox and other infectious diseases in eastern DRC,” said Dr. Tedros. “This includes providing essential healthcare services, addressing the underlying causes of displacement, and promoting peace and stability in the region.”
Background on Mpox
Mpox was first identified in 1958 in colonies of monkeys kept for research. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus is endemic to West and Central Africa, but outbreaks have been reported in other parts of the world, including Europe and the Americas.
Most cases of mpox are mild and self-limited, but the disease can be fatal in some cases. The virus can be transmitted through contact with infected animals or humans, or through contaminated materials.
There is no specific treatment for mpox, but the symptoms can be managed with supportive care. The smallpox vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing mpox, and it is recommended for people who are at high risk of exposure to the virus.
Eastern DR Congo crisis increasing risk of mpox transmission, WHO chief warns
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