Mpox awareness,vaccine rollout bring hope in DR Congo

Despite challenges, medical workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province are hopeful as awareness about mpox grows and vaccines are set to arrive soon. The outbreak, which has claimed over 635 lives this year, has spurred an urgent response from the government and international partners.

At the Lwiro community hospital, staff are treating a growing number of patients, including many young children. Despite the lack of resources and personal protective equipment, they are encouraged by the fact that awareness about mpox has increased, leading people to seek treatment early.

“We’re heartened that patients are coming to the clinic as soon as they show symptoms,” said Dr. Pacifique Karanzo, a local medic. Thanks to early intervention, the clinic has not yet experienced any mpox fatalities.

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The recent arrival of 200,000 vaccines in the capital, Kinshasa, donated by the European Commission, offers additional hope. While it will take time to distribute them across the country, the government is taking steps to ensure they reach remote areas like South Kivu, with plans to begin vaccinations in October.

Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, who hails from the region, has pledged to deliver urgent assistance to the area. He expressed confidence that with the right support, the outbreak can be contained, saying, “It’s a matter of political will. I am confident that we will succeed.”

In addition to vaccines, the clinic’s staff say that continued support in the form of medicine, hygiene supplies, and infrastructure improvements will be key to curbing the outbreak. The collaboration between the government, local medics, and international partners signals a hopeful path forward in the fight against mpox in DR Congo.