KAMITUNG, DR Congo: As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) prepares for its vaccination campaign against mpox, set to launch on October 2, the logistical hurdles are significant. The campaign will initially focus on Kamituga, a bustling mining town in the South Kivu province, where the latest outbreak began in September 2023.
With its remote location and challenging terrain, Kamituga presents a daunting environment for vaccination efforts.
Access to Kamituga is severely limited, with only one road leading to the town, much of which is a bumpy dirt track. This isolation complicates the distribution of vaccines and hampers healthcare access for the approximately 280,000 residents—though local estimates suggest the population may be as high as 500,000. Many communities surrounding Kamituga remain cut off, making it difficult for health authorities to reach those in need. Motorcycle taxis often serve as the primary mode of transportation for residents heading to medical facilities, but drivers express their fears about potential exposure to the virus.
The local healthcare system faces additional challenges due to a transient population that flows in from neighboring regions, including Bukavu and even Burundi. This constant movement makes it challenging to monitor cases and ensure vaccinations reach all at-risk individuals. Public health officials are aware that educating populations about mpox risks has become increasingly difficult, particularly among transient groups, including miners and sex workers, who are disproportionately affected by the virus.
While the peak of the epidemic seems to have passed, the spread of mpox to surrounding areas remains a concern. Authorities are optimistic, however, citing a stabilization in the number of cases. Efforts to enhance public confidence in vaccines will be crucial, especially following the decline in trust during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the residents of Kamituga appear eager for vaccination, signaling hope in the battle against mpox and a collective desire to protect their community from further outbreaks.
