Health officials report that mpox cases in Congo show signs of stabilizing, suggesting a potential decline in the outbreak that prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global health emergency in August.
In recent weeks, Congo has recorded approximately 200 to 300 lab-confirmed mpox cases each week, down from 400 cases in July. This decrease is notable in Kamituga, a mining hub in eastern Congo, where a new, more contagious variant of mpox first surfaced.
Despite this positive trend, the WHO acknowledges that only 40% to 50% of suspected infections in Congo are being tested. The virus continues to spread in certain regions and beyond, including neighboring Uganda.
Health experts caution that Congo has received just 265,000 vaccine doses, far short of the amount needed to control the virus. The vaccination campaign has reached 50,000 people out of Congo’s population of 110 million, creating significant gaps in immunity.
“There needs to be a continental effort to stop mpox’s spread and prevent dangerous mutations,” said Dr. Zakary Rhissa, a director at the humanitarian organization Alima. “If we miss this moment, a major resurgence is likely.”
Mpox has caused over 43,000 suspected cases across Africa this year, leading to more than 1,000 deaths, mostly in Congo. Experts argue that a stronger vaccination effort is essential to prevent further escalation.
Georgette Hamuli, an 18-year-old in Goma, recently received a vaccination and shared her hope that the shot will protect her. “They told us we’re at high risk,” she said, expressing concern over the continued exposure.
The Africa CDC estimates that Congo needs at least three million vaccines to fully combat the virus. However, experts warn that without robust support, a sustainable public health solution remains out of reach.
