**Fatshimetrie: Issues and challenges of managing the Mpox epidemic in South Kivu**
In the heart of South Kivu, a fierce fight continues against the Mpox epidemic, also known as monkeypox. Despite the efforts made by health and humanitarian authorities, several challenges continue to hamper the response and management of this viral disease.
According to information relayed by health professionals, 19 health zones are affected by this epidemic, with significant gaps in terms of support and drug supply. The lack of holistic support, resources for patient care, catering for hospitalized patients and psychosocial support represent obstacles to an effective response.
During a meeting in Bukavu, Dr. Claire Sangara, WHO epidemiologist, stressed that the situation remains worrying despite the efforts made. The figures speak for themselves: between epidemiological weeks 30 and 31, 469 alerts were investigated, with 264 confirmed cases and three new cases recorded. This increase in the number of cases demonstrates the persistence of the threat posed by Mpox in the region.
Faced with this emergency situation, the DRC government has taken preventive measures, declaring the Mpox epidemic a “health emergency” at the global level. Prevention, vaccination and awareness-raising actions have been put in place to stem the spread of the virus and protect the population.
However, despite these initiatives, the path to eradicating the epidemic remains fraught with pitfalls. The most critical situation is concentrated in the provinces of Equateur, South Kivu, Tshuapa, Tshopo and Kinshasa, with an increasing number of cases reported.
Over the years, the Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded a worrying increase in the number of infections and deaths related to Mpox. Since 2024, more than 15,000 people have been infected and 548 lives have been taken by this viral disease.
Faced with these alarming figures, it is essential to strengthen prevention, care and awareness efforts to effectively combat the Mpox epidemic in South Kivu. Coordination between health, humanitarian and government actors is essential to face this major challenge and protect the population against this deadly disease.