Congo is at the center of a significant mpox outbreak, which the World Health Organization recently designated as a global public health emergency. Vaccines are expected to arrive soon to address the new virus strain, and the government has approved an initial $10 million to tackle the crisis.
At the Kavumu hospital, which has admitted 900 patients with symptoms over the past three months, healthcare workers are struggling with severe shortages of medication. The head doctor reported daily shortages and a steep decline in international aid.
Currently, 135 patients, including both children and adults, are being treated in three large plastic tents on damp ground without proper flooring. Visitors, who usually bring food to underfunded hospitals, are barred to prevent contamination.
Families of patients have been resorting to traditional remedies due to the lack of medical supplies, with some using honey to alleviate pain.
The response team acknowledged the urgent need for medicine in various regions and is prioritizing the distribution of aid, including 115 tonnes of medicine from the World Bank.
Mpox, which causes flu-like symptoms and painful lesions, can be especially severe for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The situation has led to the establishment of additional temporary wards in the area.
As of August 31, the health ministry reported 19,710 suspected cases of mpox in Congo, with 5,041 confirmed and 655 fatalities.