Mpox Crisis Worsens in DRC as Fighting Escalates in the East
Mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have surged as the ongoing conflict in the east disrupts healthcare services. The country, already carrying the highest mpox burden globally, is facing a worsening crisis due to fighting between government forces and M23 rebels.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has reported a 31% increase in cases over the past week, with the total number of infections now nearing 16,255. Health facilities in combat zones are struggling to cope, as supplies run short and hundreds of patients flee hospitals.
Authorities are now seeking ways to contain the outbreak, but the violence has severely limited access to vaccines, treatment, and essential medical supplies. The humanitarian situation is dire, with the spread of mpox compounding other health challenges in the region, including cholera and measles.
Mpox Cases Surge as Patients Flee Hospitals
As violence intensifies, mpox patients have been forced to flee health centers, worsening the outbreak. Reports indicate that over 600 patients left hospitals in the eastern provinces, making it harder for health workers to track and manage infections.
The loss of these patients from the healthcare system has increased fears that the virus could spread unchecked in crowded displacement camps. Many who were receiving treatment are now untraceable, leaving health authorities concerned about the potential for a larger outbreak.
Healthcare workers on the ground say the situation is critical. “The insecurity has disrupted everything,” said Dr. Serge Munyahu Cikuru, a medical officer in South Kivu province. “Patients are missing, medical staff are struggling, and essential supplies are running out.”
Vaccine Shortages Threaten Mpox Response
Efforts to control the mpox outbreak in the DRC are being hindered by severe vaccine shortages. Recently delivered vaccines are in danger of expiring due to the inability to transport them to conflict-affected areas.
The health ministry had planned to distribute vaccines to high-risk regions, but supply lines have been disrupted by ongoing fighting. Trucks carrying medical supplies have been targeted, and some hospitals have come under direct attack.
Humanitarian groups and the World Health Organization (WHO) have called for urgent international support to ensure the vaccines reach affected populations. However, with the fighting still ongoing, safe access to these regions remains a major challenge.
Health Infrastructure Under Attack Amid Crisis
The fighting in eastern DRC has not only caused mass displacement but has also directly impacted health infrastructure. Several hospitals in the region have been damaged or abandoned as medical staff flee for safety.
With hospitals no longer functional, makeshift clinics have been set up in refugee camps. However, these temporary facilities lack the equipment and medicine needed to handle severe cases of mpox, leaving many patients without proper care.
The situation has been described as a “public health emergency” by aid agencies. Many international organizations are calling for a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need, but so far, there has been little progress in securing safe passage.
Mpox Outbreak Adds to DRC’s Health Challenges
The worsening mpox outbreak comes at a time when the DRC is already battling multiple public health crises. Cholera and measles cases have surged in eastern provinces, with limited medical resources stretched to their limits.
With over 7 million people displaced by conflict, crowded and unsanitary conditions in refugee camps are fueling the spread of infectious diseases. Health experts warn that without urgent intervention, the combined impact of mpox, cholera, and measles could lead to a catastrophic health disaster.
Authorities are pushing for the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to allow medical teams to deliver aid, but continued fighting has made it difficult to secure agreements with rebel groups.
Calls for International Support as Mpox Spreads
The DRC government and international health organizations are now appealing for global assistance to contain the outbreak. The WHO has warned that the Clade 1b strain of mpox, which is circulating in the country, is highly transmissible and has the potential to spread beyond Africa.
Mpox, a viral disease related to smallpox, spreads through close contact and causes fever, muscle aches, and painful skin lesions. Although most cases are mild, the disease can be deadly, especially in regions with limited healthcare access.
International donors are being urged to step up funding for vaccine distribution, medical supplies, and emergency healthcare workers. Without immediate action, the crisis in the DRC could spiral further out of control.
Mpox Continues to Spread as Peace Efforts Stall
Attempts to negotiate a suspension of hostilities to allow medical aid into the eastern provinces have so far failed. While discussions have taken place between the government and armed groups, no concrete agreements have been reached.
In the meantime, healthcare workers continue to operate under dangerous conditions, trying to prevent the further spread of mpox. Many are working without pay, relying on international donations to keep small medical centers running.
“The health system is collapsing under the weight of this crisis,” said Dr. Cikuru. “If we don’t act now, the consequences will be devastating.”
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the outbreak can be contained or if the situation will deteriorate further. With mpox cases rising rapidly, the need for a coordinated international response has never been more urgent.
