The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is no longer expecting its first delivery of mpox vaccines this week as global health authorities believe the virus can still be contained. The country’s response team head, Cris Kacita, mentioned that there are still processes to be followed before the vaccines can arrive, as the Congolese pharmaceutical regulatory agency needs guidance from Danish drugmaker Bavarian Nordic. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the virus can be controlled with a coordinated response, despite recent outbreaks in the DRC and neighboring countries.
Health authorities are struggling to contain the virus, with the WHO declaring a global public health emergency due to the situation. Recently, the DRC health minister expressed optimism about receiving vaccine deliveries, aided by promises of help from Japan and the United States. Germany has committed to donating 100,000 vaccine doses to the DRC. As of Thursday, more than 21,300 suspected or confirmed cases and 590 deaths have been reported across 12 African nations this year.
The WHO is increasing its staffing in affected countries as part of a strategic plan that requires $135 million in funding. Vaccination efforts will target those at highest risk, including close contacts of cases and healthcare workers, to prevent further transmission. The agency is set to launch a funding appeal soon to support these efforts.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
Health News: DR Congo’s vaccine delivery expectation changes, no mpox vaccines expected this week
