UNHCR Calls for Urgent International Support Amid Rising Mpox Outbreak in DRC and Neighboring Countrie
The UNHCR is raising alarms over the growing mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which is increasingly threatening the lives of refugees and displaced populations in the region. Dr. Allen Maina, UNHCR's Public Health Chief, emphasized the need for heightened international support to prevent a catastrophic spread of the virus among vulnerable communities.
‘’ Atleast 42 suspected cases have been identified among the refugee population, confirmed cases have also been reported in surrounding countries, for those fleeing violence implementing many of the measures is a tremendous challenge’’ Dr Maina noted in a video posted in UNHCR’S X account.
The DRC has reported over 13,000 cases and 450 deaths from mpox in 2024 alone, with neighboring countries also seeing rising cases.
The outbreak, declared a public health emergency by WHO, is exacerbated by the harsh living conditions in refugee camps where overcrowding and limited access to sanitation make it difficult to contain the disease. The virus, which spreads through close contact, has particularly severe implications for children and those with weakened immune systems.
With the potential for the outbreak to spill over into neighboring countries, including Burundi, Cameroon, and South Africa, the UNHCR and WHO are urgently appealing for resources to bolster health services, establish isolation centers, and improve access to essential hygiene products in these vulnerable regions.
Without swift international action, the outbreak could have devastating effects on the already fragile refugee communities in the DRC and beyond.