Health workers in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, are facing a new challenge as they tackle the outbreak of mpox, a viral disease previously known as monkeypox. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a continental emergency, and cases have been detected in 13 African countries, as well as in Sweden, Pakistan, and the Philippines. In DRC, more than 15,000 cases have been recorded, resulting in 548 deaths this year. Despite ongoing challenges such as medicine shortages and an ongoing rebellion in the east, health workers are working diligently to screen, isolate, and care for patients infected with the disease.
Doctors and health providers in DRC have been on the front lines of previous epidemics such as Ebola and COVID-19, and are now facing the unique challenges posed by mpox. The disease causes symptoms such as headache, fever, muscle aches, and a rash with pustules. Health facilities in the region have treated hundreds of cases of mpox, with a focus on alleviating symptoms as there are currently no specific antiviral treatments available.
However, the region is also grappling with ongoing conflict, making it difficult for health workers to respond effectively to the mpox outbreak. In recent years, rebels and militias have been engaged in fighting in the region, leading to deaths, displacement, and disruptions to healthcare access. Medical NGO Doctors Without Borders is supporting the Congolese government in treating mpox cases in the region, despite the complex humanitarian and conflict situation.
As health workers continue to provide care to patients affected by mpox, there are concerns about the impact of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises on their ability to respond effectively. The international community is also closely monitoring the situation in DRC and working to support efforts to contain and treat the outbreak of the disease.
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