Fatshimétrie looks at the Mpox outbreak in Equateur, highlighting the challenges faced by the local population and health authorities. According to the provincial Minister of Health, Dr Didier Mbula Ibenge, the status of Mpox vaccination is worrying, with only two out of eighteen health zones having been covered so far. This stagnation raises concerns about the continued spread of the epidemic throughout the region.
Dr Ibenge highlights the magnitude of the crisis, noting that all health zones are affected by Mpox. He stresses the need to increase vaccination coverage and establish outreach centers to ensure wider access to care. The geography of the region, surrounded by vast forests that are home to various diseases, exposes the population to increased risks of contamination. It is imperative to intensify awareness and prevention efforts to stem the spread of the virus.
The testimonies collected in Makila Bolonjua paint an alarming picture. Health checks on meat, especially from the forest region, are evidence of the measures taken to limit the spread of the virus. However, many challenges remain, particularly in terms of access to care for people with Mpox. Drug shortages and the distances to travel to the nearest health centers exacerbate the risks for the population.
At the port of Makila, calls from residents and local professionals for increased vaccination coverage are poignant. Fishermen like José Ewele Bosongo express their concern about the lack of vaccinators in the region, exposing the vulnerability of local communities to the epidemic.
The Expanded Programme on Immunization in Mbandaka reports alarming figures, with more than 7,000 cases and 370 deaths recorded since the start of the Mpox epidemic. These data highlight the urgency of collective action to curb the spread of the virus and protect the health of the people of Ecuador.
In conclusion, the Mpox outbreak in Ecuador requires a strong and coordinated response from health authorities and partners involved. Emphasis must be placed on expanding vaccination coverage, improving access to care, and raising awareness among the population to stem the spread of the disease. It is imperative to mobilize additional resources and efforts to protect the health and well-being of communities affected by this health crisis.