New Delhi: Congo is currently facing a significant mpox outbreak, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting more than 21,000 confirmed and suspected cases this year, out of a total of 25,093 across Africa.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has been endemic in Congo for decades. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from infected animals to humans. While it typically causes milder symptoms like fever, those with severe cases can develop significant skin lesions. In the latest outbreaks, over 720 people have died across Africa, predominantly in Congo.
In September 2023, mpox spread to South Kivu, previously unaffected by the disease, leading to the identification of a new strain that may be more infectious. The WHO indicated that the virus then spread from South Kivu to the neighboring province of North Kivu. These provinces, located approximately 2,000 kilometers from Kinshasa, are grappling with increasing violence, a humanitarian crisis, and various health service challenges.
Eastern Congo has been mired in conflict among over 120 armed groups for years, causing widespread displacement. Dr. Musole Mulambamunva Robert, medical director of Kavumu hospital, noted, “It is truly a challenge,” as the hospital sometimes treats four times its capacity. More than 6 million people are displaced in the eastern regions, complicating efforts to provide basic healthcare and nutrition while also battling other diseases like cholera.
Many communities in eastern Congo remain inaccessible due to ongoing violence and poor infrastructure. Mercy Muthee Lake from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent stated that many residents lack basic necessities like soap and clean water, making them more susceptible to severe mpox cases. “Some eastern Congo communities are out of reach of health clinics — roads are unreliable, and hourslong risky boat trips are sometimes the only means of transport,” she added.
Congo has received approximately 250,000 doses of mpox vaccine from the European Union and the United States. However, the government estimates that around 3 million doses are necessary to effectively combat the outbreak. The vaccine is currently approved only for adults, and there is limited information about its effectiveness for children. Local health workers have requested more training on mpox as essential medications to treat symptoms are running low.
Critics have highlighted the slow response to the mpox outbreak compared to previous health emergencies like Ebola and COVID-19. Professor Ali Bulabula, an infectious diseases expert at Congo’s University of Kindu, remarked, “While mpox is a public health emergency of international concern, there is a lack of in-depth research and interest in the virus, as it’s still seen as a tropical disease, localized to Africa with no major impact on Western economies.”
In Kamituga, a gold mining town at the center of the outbreak, locals report significant gaps in awareness regarding mpox. Many, like Wisoba, who fell ill but was unaware of her infection, emphasize the urgent need for community education. “I didn’t believe that children could catch this disease,” said Diego Nyago, whose young son was diagnosed with mpox after showing symptoms.
As the mpox outbreak continues to unfold, health experts stress the urgent need for effective public health measures, including enhanced vaccination efforts and community education campaigns. The WHO has suggested that with improved leadership and cooperation, outbreaks could potentially be contained within six months. However, the current realities on the ground in eastern Congo highlight a complex situation that requires immediate action to address the escalating public health crisis.
