The Synergy of Trade Unions of Veterinary Doctors and Technicians in the DRC recently expressed concern about the public health situation in the country. These health professionals point to the lack of control and surveillance of animal or zoonotic diseases and accuse the government of not taking this concern into account.
Since September 4, these veterinary doctors and technicians have started a nationwide strike to assert their demands. They claim that the government has not respected the commitments made during the Bibwa Accords 1,2 and 3, which were to guarantee their rights as health professionals.
As a result of this strike, all specialized veterinary services, such as import and export authorizations, animal quarantine services, veterinary services at border posts, clinics, slaughterhouses and veterinary laboratories, are closed. Veterinary health professionals have decided to decline all responsibility for the control and monitoring of animal and zoonotic diseases, thus endangering the health of the population.
Faced with this worrying situation, the Synergy of unions of doctors and veterinary technicians of the DRC calls for vigilance for importers and consumers of meat, milk and their by-products. They warn against the lack of veterinary expertise during the strike and recommend increasing hygiene measures, such as washing hands with soap and clean water after any contact with animals.
However, Synergy of Trade Unions calls on the government to show common sense and responsibility. It urges the authorities to take their demands into account and to ensure the health security of the population.
It is essential to emphasize the importance of veterinary medicine in the prevention and control of animal diseases, which can have a direct impact on human health. By paying particular attention to this area of public health, the Congolese government will be able to contribute to the protection of the population and the prevention of the emergence of zoonotic diseases.
In conclusion, the strike of veterinary doctors and technicians in the DRC highlights the existing shortcomings in the control and surveillance of animal diseases. It is crucial that the government take appropriate measures to resolve this situation and guarantee the health security of the population. The health of the Congolese depends in part on the proper functioning of veterinary medicine, and it is essential to recognize its importance in the prevention of diseases.