The Mpox pandemic has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) following a recent surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring countries. A genetic mutation has been causing uninterrupted human-to-human transmission of the virus: in the DRC, the epicenter of the mpox outbreak, more than 17,000 suspected cases have been notified and over 580 deaths reported.  

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection transmitted through close contact between people or with infected animals. In DRC, people at high risk such as children, pregnant women, newborn babies, and people with underlying immune deficiencies are especially vulnerable and can face severe complications, even death, if left untreated.  

The outbreak has affected all 26 provinces, with Sud Kivu and Equateur recording the highest number of cases. Lualaba Province, where our local partner Bon Pasteur Kolwezi operates, has so far recorded a few confirmed cases. In 2024, the number of mpox infections reported so far in the country is already higher than in all of 2023. 

Following the declaration by the WHO and by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention of Mpox as a public health emergency of continental security, Bon Pasteur is mounting an immediate response in the mining communities of the Kolwezi area. Aware of the risks posed by the virus, Bon Pasteur is closely monitoring the evolution of the situation and has prioritized creating awareness among its beneficiaries, staff, and the public at large through risk communication and community engagement. The staff of the Bon Pasteur Clinique de Santé have been trained in health protocols and prevention measures to curb the spread of the virus. Educational activities are also being carried out to raise community awareness and provide guidance on the steps to take if a case is suspected. 

In light of the growing concerns, Bon Pasteur Kolwezi continues to collaborate with other institutions and local authorities, prepared to assess the needs emerging from the epidemic as the situation evolves. 

Demonstration on hand washing technique by Bon Pasteur staff