The vaccination campaign against Ebola virus disease was launched recently at the Beni General Reference Hospital, in the province of North Kivu. This initiative aims to prevent any resurgence of this disease in the region.
This vaccination primarily targets front-line healthcare providers, such as doctors, nurses, hygienists, military personnel and medical students. Indeed, these professionals are particularly exposed to the risk of contracting the disease and spreading it.
The representative of the Beni health zone, Dr Anicet Badilisha, explains the motivations behind this vaccination campaign. First of all, the population of North Kivu lives in a forest area conducive to the presence of the Ebola virus reservoir. Additionally, the region has already experienced several outbreaks of this disease, indicating possible persistence in some people. Finally, health professionals who were involved in the fight against Ebola are considered a population at risk, and it is crucial to protect them to avoid a new outbreak.
In recent years, the Beni region has been affected by two waves of Ebola epidemics, which resulted in numerous human losses. It is therefore a priority to put in place preventive measures to prevent new cases of this serious disease.
In parallel with this vaccination campaign, it is also important to continue to raise awareness among the population about hygiene and prevention measures to limit the spread of the Ebola virus. Collaboration between health authorities and the community is essential to effectively contain this disease.
Thus, this vaccination campaign against Ebola in Beni is a crucial step in the fight against this disease. By protecting healthcare providers and raising awareness, we can stop the spread of the virus and save lives. The vigilance and cooperation of all remain essential in this fight against Ebola.