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The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which is severely impeding efforts to control the ongoing monkeypox outbreak in the region.
As of this year, Africa has reported over 9,959 cases of monkeypox, with the death toll reaching 85. During an online media briefing, Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya revealed that eight African nations have reported 3,300 new cases this week alone, including 914 confirmed instances. The DRC, currently the epicenter of the outbreak, has seen a staggering 2,707 reported cases over the past week, with 516 confirmed infections and 38 fatalities.
The crisis in the DRC has become even more dire due to the intensifying conflict between the DRC army and M23 rebels in the eastern region, particularly in the city of Goma. Kaseya emphasized that the worsening humanitarian situation is directly hampering response efforts not only against monkeypox but also against other significant health threats. “Health infrastructure has been broken, and access to basic services like water and sanitation is non-existent,” he explained. The region is also grappling with multiple outbreaks of diseases like cholera and measles.
The large-scale displacement of people from conflict zones is compounding the problem, raising concerns that the monkeypox virus could spread further within the DRC and neighboring countries. “We are talking about people who are leaving Goma and could spread the disease to other regions of the DRC and neighboring countries,” Kaseya warned. He stressed that, while the guns of war may not defeat everyone, the outbreaks of disease pose a significant and deadly threat to all.
Since the outbreak began, 21 African countries have been affected by monkeypox, with 12 currently experiencing active transmission. In August 2022, the Africa CDC declared the outbreak a public health emergency of continental security, a designation soon followed by the World Health Organization, which declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern. This marked the second time in two years that the WHO had activated its highest global alert level for the disease.
Monkeypox, first detected in laboratory monkeys in 1958, is a rare viral disease that spreads through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and in severe cases, it can lead to death.
The Africa CDC urges a concerted effort from local and international organizations to address both the health and humanitarian crises in the DRC, stressing that coordinated action is vital to preventing further loss of life.
Disclaimer: The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the broader Africa region continues to evolve. This report reflects the latest available information, but as the situation develops, new data may emerge. Always refer to official health organizations for updates.
