Mpox Cases Stabilize in Congo Amid Vaccine Urgency

Mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo are reportedly stabilizing, with the World Health Organization (WHO) noting a decrease from nearly 400 cases per week in July to about 200-300 in recent weeks. However, testing remains inadequate, with only 40-50% of suspected cases being confirmed, and the virus continues to spread in some areas, including Uganda. The limited availability of vaccines, with only 265,000 doses received by Congo, is a pressing concern, as only around 50,000 people have been vaccinated in a nation of 110 million. Experts emphasize the need for an urgent and broader vaccination effort across Africa to prevent further outbreaks and genetic mutations of the virus. The WHO recently announced the allocation of nearly one million mpox vaccine doses to nine African countries, aiming to support equitable access amid rising cases across the continent. The organization stresses that vaccination must be complemented by other public health measures to effectively control the outbreak.