The Democratic Republic of Congo Launches Monkeypox Vaccination Campaign
The Democratic Republic of Congo has initiated an effective vaccination campaign against the monkeypox (mpox) virus. Health officials in the country announced the campaign to the public during a ceremony that symbolized the setup and administration of the first vaccine dose.
Campaign Objectives
The primary target of the vaccination program is healthcare workers. During a ceremony held at a hospital in Goma, it was emphasized that healthcare workers will play a critical role in the vaccination process.
Vaccination with Limited Resources
The Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of Congo warned about the limited availability of current vaccine doses, noting that there are currently 265,000 doses available nationwide. However, they assured that more vaccines would be procured in the coming days.
World Health Organization Statement
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Director, hailed the rollout of the vaccine as a significant development. “The availability of the vaccine marks a crucial step in limiting the spread of the virus and ensuring the safety of the community,” she said.
Current Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo
As of 2024, the country has reported over 30,000 suspected and confirmed monkeypox cases and 990 deaths. According to WHO, this number accounts for 90% of the cases reported throughout Africa this year.