DRC Launches Mpox Vaccination Campaign with Africa CDC Support

By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has successfully launched its vaccination campaign in two high-priority provinces in a bid to control the Mpox outbreak. This initiative, supported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and a coalition of global partners, marks a critical milestone in the ongoing efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations across the country.

The campaign, which began in the Equateur and North Kivu provinces, is set to expand to additional regions, ensuring more comprehensive coverage. This ambitious undertaking has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the DRC's Ministry of Public Health and Prevention, Africa CDC, and international partners including the European Union / HERA, United States Government, World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Gavi, and the World Food Programme (WFP).

A game-changing development in this effort is the arrival of 265,000 doses of the MVA-BN Mpox vaccines. This substantial contribution, generously donated by the European Union and facilitated by Africa CDC in collaboration with Bavarian Nordic, the Government of the United States, and Gavi, significantly bolsters the country's capacity to manage the outbreak.

Africa CDC Director General, H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, praised the DRC's swift action, stating:

"Africa CDC commends the DRC's swift action in launching the vaccination campaign, which showcases the strength of its public health leadership. By prioritizing vulnerable populations, including frontline health workers and those most at risk, the country is taking critical steps to contain the outbreak."

Dr. Kaseya further emphasized Africa CDC's commitment to the cause, adding, "Our top priority is to secure safe and effective vaccines for children in the next phase of vaccination."

The Mpox virus continues to pose a serious threat, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those living in areas with limited healthcare access. In response, the Continental Incident Management Support Team (IMST) has been actively supporting the DRC's efforts by providing technical expertise, coordinating vaccine deployment, and offering logistical assistance to ensure effective distribution across affected regions.

While vaccination plays a crucial role, Africa CDC also recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to outbreak control. This includes robust infection prevention and control measures, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns. These efforts, working in tandem with the vaccination program, are essential in protecting populations and minimizing the impact of the outbreak.

As part of its ongoing commitment to combating Mpox, Africa CDC pledges continued support to the DRC and 16 other affected countries. This support encompasses technical assistance, capacity-building, and coordination with international partners. The successful launch of this vaccination campaign serves as a testament to the power of global collaboration in addressing public health challenges.

The fight against Mpox is far from over, but the DRC's proactive approach, backed by Africa CDC and international partners, represents a significant step forward. As the campaign progresses and expands to new regions, it not only protects communities from the immediate threat of Mpox but also strengthens Africa's resilience against future public health threats.

Source: Africa CDC

Related:

Africa CDC Commends Japan and DRC for Mpox Vaccine Donation Agreement

Published: OCTOBER 7, 2024

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