Mpox vaccines delivered to DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has received 99,000 doses of the mpox vaccine, marking a critical step in the country’s fight against the ongoing outbreak.

Another 101,000 doses are expected to arrive in the country over the weekend, boosting vaccination efforts in the most affected regions.

WHO is collaborating with the DRC government to combat the spread of the virus. The response plan includes case detection, contact tracing, targeted vaccination, and public health awareness campaigns aimed at curbing further transmission. I

n addition, the global health body is focusing on engaging local communities to raise awareness of the virus and its transmission risks.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease transmitted through close contact with infected humans, animals, or contaminated materials. The virus typically causes symptoms such as fever and skin lesions, which can last for up to four weeks.

The delivery of vaccines to the DRC is crucial, as the country has been one of the hardest-hit nations since the outbreak began. WHO's Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, acknowledged the importance of international support in securing these vaccines.

"We are grateful to the European Union for its solidarity and for sharing vaccines," Dr. Tedros said.

The European Union has been instrumental in the vaccine supply effort, working in coordination with WHO to ensure vaccines reach countries facing high transmission rates.

The DRC will begin distributing the vaccines in regions where the risk of infection is highest. Priority groups will include healthcare workers and individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed cases.

With the additional 101,000 doses expected to arrive, WHO is optimistic that the vaccination campaign will help slow the spread of mpox in the DRC.

The international effort, led by WHO and supported by partners such as the EU, has been crucial in ensuring the timely delivery of vaccines to countries in need.