DRC: Oxfam responds to Mpox outbreak in Equateur as it reaches alarming levels
The MPox epidemic has reached alarming levels in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as more than 15,000 cases and over 540 deaths have been reported across the country since the beginning of the year. Oxfam is mounting an immediate response particularly in the most affected province of Equateur.
Justine Tossou Gomis, Oxfam’s Country Director for the DRC, said:
“The situation in Equateur is particularly alarming, with over 320 deaths already reported. Very poor water and sanitation have led to the spread of diseases and the resurgence of several epidemics. Entire communities already struggling with poor sanitation are now at risk.”
Working closely with the national authorities and partners, Oxfam aims to support approximately 80,000 people across Mbandaka, Bikoro, Bolenge, Tondo, and Ingende with hygiene and prevention awareness, clean water and sanitation, while strengthening community engagement and the preparedness of health institutions in the province.
“Our response builds on Oxfam’s track record of public health and sanitation programmes in Equateur since Ebola. We will work with local communities and partners to provide hygiene and sanitation kits and information on how to prevent viral contamination,” added Tossou.
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Wednesday that the monkeypox outbreak has already affected several African countries and constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. Oxfam is closely monitoring the situation in these countries to assess needs.
The Minister of Health, Hygiene, and Social Welfare of the DRC gave an alarming report on the monkeypox epidemic in the DRC and called on the entire community to change their behavior to counter the spread of the epidemic.
Notes to Editors
- Spokespeople are available.
- Since 2002, Oxfam has been operating in the Equateur province, working in the sectors of water, hygiene, sanitation, health, and education. Currently, we are implementing actions in water, hygiene, sanitation, protection, and gender in four health zones (Mbandaka, Bikoro, Lotumbe, and Iboko) most affected by the monkeypox epidemic.
- According to the latest Ministry of Health epidemiological report, the DRC has recorded 15,664 potential cases and 548 deaths since the beginning of the year. The most affected provinces are Equateur, South Kivu, South Ubangi, Sankuru, Tshuapa, Mongala, and Tshopo. The Equateur province has seen the highest number of cases and 321 deaths.