Johanniter Boosts Efforts to Contain Mpox Virus Across Five African Nations Amid WHO Alert

Johanniter Intensifies Mpox Containment Efforts Across Africa Amid WHO Alert

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a high alert for a new variant of the Mpox virus in Africa, prompting Johanniter to ramp up its response across five countries. The organization operates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and Uganda, focusing on containing the virus and treating affected individuals.

Mpox Outbreak and Johanniter’s Response

The DRC, the most severely impacted by this year’s Mpox outbreak, has reported over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths so far. The challenging conditions in North Kivu’s refugee camps, characterized by poor hygiene and limited healthcare access, create a perfect environment for the virus to spread. Johanniter’s mobile clinics in seven camps have already identified 10 cases, though these are currently isolated.

Dr. Gustave Byanjira Mulume, Johanniter’s medical coordinator in the DRC, highlighted that the organization is concentrating on prevention and education to curb the spread. Health workers and volunteers are engaged in awareness campaigns to educate the public on symptoms and precautions, while mobile clinic staff are being prepared and equipped to handle potential cases.

Regional Precautions and Challenges

Mpox cases have begun appearing outside the DRC, presenting a risk of broader health crises across the continent if preventive measures are not strictly followed. Yasmin Fwamba, regional health advisor for Johanniter in Uganda, emphasized the urgency of maintaining high hygiene standards and avoiding contact with infected individuals to prevent a pandemic.

Mozambique confirmed its first Mpox case yesterday, compounding the challenges as the country battles a measles outbreak. In Kenya, authorities are conducting tests at key border crossings to prevent disease spread. Uganda is also screening travelers at its border with the DRC, where unrest has led many to seek refuge.

Johanniter is enhancing its prevention activities in all affected countries, including organizing community awareness campaigns and training volunteers. The organization is also actively participating in government task forces and multi-agency forums to coordinate response efforts and expand protection measures.

Ongoing Monitoring and Global Coordination

Johanniter is committed to providing routine updates on the situation, including vaccine availability, and maintaining an intensive dialogue on Mpox containment. The organization’s comprehensive approach aims to mitigate the impact of the virus and safeguard communities across Africa.

For further information and updates, please contact Sandra Lorenz, Head of Communication at +49172 / 563 87 40 or via email at sandra.lorenz@johanniter.de. Follow Johanniter on social media for real-time updates: @JohanniterIn.