The measles outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to wreak havoc. Since the beginning of 2023, the country has recorded 148,936 suspected cases and 2,237 deaths, with a fatality rate of 1.5%. All 26 provinces of the country, with at least one health zone, are affected by this epidemic.
According to figures from the Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Prevention, the province of North Kivu is the most affected with 34,565 cases and 154 deaths, followed by South Kivu with 33,194 cases and 212 deaths. Children under the age of 5 represent the vast majority of cases, or 77% of those infected, while the remaining 23% concern people aged 5 and over.
Health authorities and their partners such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are strongly mobilized to put in place response and prevention measures. Actions are underway in various health zones, particularly in North Kivu, Tshopo and Kinshasa.
Some health zones have managed to complete the response, thanks to the collaboration of partners such as MSF. For example, in the health zone of Goma, the response was concluded in the health areas of Buhimba, Bulengii, Elohim and Keshero. Progress is also reported in other provinces such as Sankuru, Lualaba and Tshopo.
However, despite these efforts, the measles epidemic persists and the scale of cases and deaths remains of concern. It is essential to continue preventive measures, in particular vaccination and public awareness. Local authorities, health organizations and the population must remain vigilant and continue to fight this contagious disease together.
In conclusion, the situation of the measles epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo is alarming. The high numbers of cases and deaths underline the importance of putting in place effective prevention and response strategies. Collaboration between authorities, partners and the population is essential to stem this epidemic and protect the health of all.