Frontline Medical Staff in Eastern DRC Plead for Mpox Vaccines Amidst Rising Cases

Medical staff battling the mpox outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are desperately awaiting vaccine deliveries to stem the surge in new infections. At a treatment center in South Kivu province, healthcare workers report an influx of patients, particularly babies, and a shortage of essential equipment.

Despite 200,000 vaccines arriving in Kinshasa, transportation challenges mean they may not reach South Kivu for several weeks. Medical staff, who face the risk of infection daily, are urging the government to prioritize vaccine distribution.

The outbreak has killed at least 635 people in DRC this year, with 5,049 confirmed cases. Exhausted medical staff at Lwiro hospital are overwhelmed, with patients sharing beds and a lack of personal protective equipment.

Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki promises to deliver urgent assistance, but medics remain concerned about the impact of ongoing conflict on vaccine distribution. The authorities plan to begin vaccinations in October, prioritizing children and those in close contact with infected patients.

As the situation worsens, medical staff and patients eagerly await the vaccine rollout, hoping to contain the outbreak and prevent further suffering.