Epidemics continue to rage in the Democratic Republic of Congo, causing concern among health authorities. The government recently spoke of the resurgence of polio and measles in certain regions of the country, highlighting the need to strengthen prevention and care measures.
Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde responded to these alerts by asking the Minister of Public Health to identify epidemic outbreaks and draw up an inventory to inform the government. Cases of poliomyelitis were spotted near the Bitshaku-tshaku river in the commune of Barumbu in Kinshasa, while measles is rife in the provinces of Kwilu and Kwango.
Kwilu province has recorded more than 5,700 cases of measles since the start of the year, leading to the deaths of at least 103 people, mainly children under 5 years old. In Kwango, more than 700 children have been affected by the epidemic, which saw a resurgence in April this year. A three-year-old child unfortunately died among the displaced from Kwamouth in Batshongo, in Kenge territory.
These alarming figures underline the importance of taking vigorous action to stem the spread of these diseases. Vaccination and public awareness are key elements in the fight against these epidemics. It is essential that the Ministry of Public Health puts in place case detection and monitoring strategies, as well as targeted vaccination campaigns to protect the most vulnerable people.
Beyond polio and measles, the DRC also faces other health challenges, such as the fight against malaria, improving access to primary health care and preventing sexually transmitted diseases. transmissible. Additional efforts and investments are needed to strengthen the country’s health system and deal with the various epidemics that threaten the population.
The epidemiological situation in the DRC is a reminder of the importance of international collaboration and solidarity in the fight against diseases. International organizations, NGOs and development partners must continue to support the Congolese government in its efforts to protect the health of citizens and ensure equitable access to health services.
In conclusion, the resurgence of polio and measles in the Democratic Republic of Congo is worrying. Concrete measures must be taken to stem the spread of these epidemics and protect the health of the most vulnerable populations. International collaboration and investments in the health system are essential to ensure quality care and prevent future epidemics.