The article from the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, titled “The Democratic Republic of the Congo kicks off mpox vaccination,” provides crucial information regarding the launch of the mpox vaccination campaign in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This initiative marks a significant effort to combat the ongoing mpox outbreak and is essential for safeguarding public health.

Launch of Vaccination Campaign

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) launched its mpox vaccination campaign on October 5, 2024, in the eastern North Kivu province. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to control the mpox outbreak and save lives.

Target Groups

The vaccination will prioritise several groups, including health workers, frontline responders, and other at-risk groups. The campaign will subsequently expand to 11 of the most affected health zones in Equateur, North Kivu, Sankuru, South Kivu, Sud-Ubangi, and Tshopo provinces.

Vaccine Supply

The country has received 265,000 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine, donated by the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the United States Government.

Comprehensive Response

WHO recommends that mpox vaccination be part of a comprehensive response, which includes enhanced surveillance, community engagement, contact tracing, public health and social measures, and appropriate case management. As a result, WHO and partners are working closely with national authorities to scale up and reinforce these control measures.

Expert Support

More than 300 WHO experts, previously involved in polio eradication, have now joined the mpox response. With extensive field experience, they contribute to community-based and health-facility surveillance, case investigations, contact tracing, and risk communication.

Preparation and Infrastructure

WHO has supported national health authorities in various areas, including training health workers and enhancing vaccine delivery systems and infrastructure, including vaccine storage and transportation. Furthermore, community engagement and ensuring supervision for the vaccination process are also priorities. As a result, efforts are underway to address vaccine misinformation and engage with community and religious leaders.

Mpox Situation in DRC

In 2024, the DRC has reported over 30,000 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases and 990 deaths. This accounts for 90% of the cases reported in the African region this year.

Vaccine Availability and Distribution

Mpox vaccines are currently in short supply, especially in Africa. The MVA-BN vaccine received WHO’s prequalification in September 2024, which facilitates timely access. Moreover, WHO is collaborating with partners to establish a distribution mechanism for donated doses and direct procurements from the vaccine manufacturer.

In conclusion, the vaccination campaign is a critical step in addressing the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Furthermore, this effort is supported by a comprehensive strategy that integrates multiple public health measures and emphasizes international collaboration.