**Title: On the front lines of the fight against Mpox disease: the involvement of community associations**
In a concerted effort to stem the alarming progression of Mpox disease, community-based associations are mobilizing and taking a front-line position. This unprecedented commitment was driven during a recent workshop organized by the Provincial Health Division and supported by ENABEL, bringing together 120 influential actors from various social backgrounds.
The objective of this workshop was clear: to arm these actors with knowledge and tools so that they become effective relays in the fight against Mpox. John Mondele, coordinator of the communication program at the DPS, emphasizes the crucial importance of community-based surveillance to quickly detect suspected cases and refer them to the appropriate health structures.
This new front in the fight against Mpox has generated renewed enthusiasm among the participants, now ready to put their new skills into practice. Amos Butangazi, coordinator of the motorcycle taxi associations, testifies to his awareness of the real existence of the Mpox disease, expressing confidence in his community’s ability to reverse the trend.
Similarly, Solange Kalokola, from the provincial division of fisheries and livestock, positions herself as a community spokesperson in the awareness and prevention of Mpox. She emphasizes the importance of protecting families and communities not only from the disease itself, but also from illegal practices such as clandestine slaughtering.
The fight against Mpox is particularly urgent in the province of Tshopo, where the case fatality rate is among the highest in the country, reaching 4.8%. The alarming statistics show that 2155 cases have been reported, unfortunately resulting in 104 deaths. These figures call for rapid and coordinated action by all stakeholders to reverse this worrying trend.
By involving civil society actors, community associations demonstrate their unwavering commitment to protecting their communities and promoting public health. Their essential role in raising awareness, monitoring and preventing Mpox is a testament to the power of citizen mobilization in the face of major health challenges.
Together, hand in hand, these field actors are committed to breaking the chain of Mpox transmission and working towards a healthier and safer future for all. The solidarity and determination they demonstrate are the pillars of an effective and sustainable response to this insidious disease.