One hundred and three (103) people, mainly children under 5, have lost their lives among the 5,700 measles cases recorded since the beginning of the year in Kwilu province. This sad statistic was unveiled by Dr. Aimerance Nioka, acting head of the Kwilu Provincial Health Division, during an interview with Radio Okapi.
According to Dr. Aimerance, 16 of the 24 areas in the provincial division are currently affected by measles. These areas include Bandundu, Bagata, Bulungu, Lusanga, Kikwit-Nord, Kikwit-Sud, Masimanimba, Mwanza, Mungindu, Kingandu, Gungu, Koshibanda, Pay Kongila and Yasa Bonga.
Samples were sent nationally to the National Institute for Biomedical Research (INRB) and 118 of them came back positive, thus confirming the presence of the epidemic in the province. However, due to a lack of resources, the response to measles has not yet been organised. Dr. Aimerance hopes, however, that it will soon be implemented throughout Kwilu province.
As treatment for measles is free, Dr. Aimerance encourages parents to quickly bring their children to the nearest healthcare establishments as soon as the first symptoms appear. She also insists on the importance of vaccination to cut the chain of contamination of the epidemic and encourages parents to respect the vaccination schedule of their children.
This alarming measles situation in Kwilu province highlights the importance of awareness and prevention. It is essential that local and national authorities put in place an effective response to stem the spread of the disease and protect the population, especially children, from the disastrous consequences of this epidemic.
The fight against measles requires coordination between all health actors, as well as easy access to vaccines and appropriate medical care. It is also crucial to sensitize communities on the importance of vaccination and to provide them with the information necessary to recognize the symptoms of measles and act quickly.
In conclusion, the measles situation in Kwilu province is worrying, with a high number of deaths, especially among children. It is imperative that urgent measures be taken to stem the epidemic, guarantee access to care and raise awareness