Eastern Congo’s efforts to combat the escalating mpox outbreak face severe setbacks due to the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
Hospitals, once at the forefront of disease control, now struggle to detect and treat the virus.
The conflict has triggered a mass exodus of patients, disrupting vital healthcare services.
The region, an mpox epicenter, now grapples with dwindling vaccine supplies and compromised access to treatment centers.
Dr. Serge Munyahu Cikuru, a medical officer in Miti Murhesa, describes a situation where “insecurity has disrupted everything.”
The escalating violence has forced many to abandon treatment, exacerbating the health crisis.
Despite a national surge in vaccinations, eastern Congo remains isolated, hindering crucial supply deliveries.
Cases are underreported, as only seven of 26 provinces provided data last week, according to the Africa CDC.
The Miti Murhesa treatment center, now under rebel control, reports critical shortages of medication.
The Africa CDC is negotiating for a humanitarian corridor to facilitate access, requiring a halt in hostilities.
Over 600 mpox patients have fled, including many from Miti Murhesa, a hotspot with over 4,700 cases.
Health workers fear a surge in infections as tracing patients becomes impossible.
“Our fear is an increase in the number of cases,” Dr. Cikuru stated, highlighting the urgent need for medical supplies and safe access.
