Eastern DR Congo Crisis Escalates Risk of Mpox Transmission, Warns WHO Chief
February 3, 2025
Geneva – The ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has heightened concerns over the transmission of mpox, a viral infection related to smallpox.
Spike in Cases
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there has been a surge in mpox cases in the affected areas of DRC, with over 100 suspected cases reported in January alone. The majority of cases are concentrated in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, where armed conflict and displacement have disrupted healthcare services and access to vaccines.
Increased Risk Factors
The crisis has created conditions that amplify the risk of mpox transmission, including:
- Population Displacement: Mass displacement due to violence has led to overcrowded living conditions in camps and settlements, increasing the likelihood of close contact between infected and susceptible individuals.
- Healthcare Disruptions: Healthcare facilities have been targeted and damaged, leaving communities without access to essential services, including mpox diagnosis and treatment.
- Weakened Immune Systems: Malnutrition and disease among displaced populations can compromise their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to severe mpox infections.
Regional Impact
The WHO warns that the outbreak in eastern DRC could have regional implications. Neighboring countries, such as Uganda and South Sudan, have reported imported mpox cases, raising concerns about the potential for wider transmission.
WHO Response
The WHO is collaborating with local and international partners to address the mpox outbreak in DRC. Measures include:
- Surveillance and Case Detection: Intensifying surveillance to rapidly identify and isolate cases.
- Vaccination: Providing vaccines to high-risk populations, such as healthcare workers and vulnerable individuals.
- Infection Prevention and Control: Promoting hygiene practices and distributing personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of infection.
Call for Action
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for urgent action to contain the mpox outbreak and address the underlying causes of the crisis in eastern DRC.
“The mpox outbreak is a serious threat to the health and well-being of our communities,” said Dr. Ghebreyesus. “We must work together to stop its spread and address the root causes of this crisis.”
The WHO urged international donors and humanitarian organizations to provide support for the emergency response, strengthen healthcare systems in affected areas, and promote peace and stability in eastern DRC.
Eastern DR Congo crisis increasing risk of mpox transmission, WHO chief warns
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Health a new article on 2025-02-03 12:00 titled “Eastern DR Congo crisis increasing risk of mpox transmission, WHO chief warns”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
4