Hospitals in eastern Congo, previously leading the response to the mpox outbreak, are now struggling to detect and treat the disease due to the presence of Rwanda-backed rebels in the region. The rebels’ recent advances have disrupted efforts to contain the virus and provide care to patients, leading to shortages of drugs and vaccines. Insecurity and conflict have hampered the collection and testing of medical samples, impacting the ability to combat the outbreak effectively.
Dr. Serge Munyahu Cikuru, a medical officer in Miti Murhesa, South Kivu province, described the challenging situation caused by the rebel group M23’s control of the area. The conflict has forced many patients to flee treatment centers, exacerbating the already dire situation. The outbreak of mpox, along with other diseases like cholera and measles, is further straining the healthcare system in eastern Congo.
Despite a recent increase in vaccination efforts, access to treatment and supplies remains limited in the affected regions. Negotiations for a humanitarian corridor are underway to facilitate the delivery of aid to conflict zones, but progress is slow due to ongoing hostilities. Patients continue to face difficulties in accessing necessary medications and care, with many expressing concerns about the worsening situation.
The influx of patients fleeing the fighting has overwhelmed healthcare facilities, with only a few treatment centers operational in the hard-hit Miti Murhesa health zone. The ongoing conflict between government forces and the rebel group has further crippled the healthcare infrastructure, leaving many patients without access to critical treatment. As the rebels expand their presence in the region, the already fragile healthcare system in eastern Congo is in danger of collapse.
Dr. Cikuru explained that the ongoing conflict has forced individuals to make the difficult decision of either staying in dangerous situations or fleeing from the rebels. Tracing patients to prevent the spread of mpox has become increasingly challenging, with health workers facing dwindling options for managing the remaining medical supplies. The doctor expressed concerns about a potential rise in the number of cases due to the current circumstances and highlighted the significant issue of medicine shortages in treatment centers. This report was filed by Asadu in Abuja, Nigeria, with contributions from Associated Press writer Evelyne Musambi in Nairobi, Kenya. For more news on Africa and development, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse. The Associated Press is supported by the Gates Foundation for global health and development coverage in Africa, with full responsibility for all content. To learn more about AP’s standards for collaboration with philanthropic organizations, supporters, and funded coverage areas, visit AP.org.
