Towards a coordinated, integrated, contextualized response to the ongoing Mpox emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

In 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing an unprecedented mpox outbreak. Cases are caused by MPXV Clade I across the country. But a new variant, Clade Ib, emerged in eastern provinces and spread to neighboring countries. This paper provides an extensive overview of priorities to consider for future actions in mpox response. Diagnostic tools will play a central role closer to the hotspots, to accelerate testing. But their performance should be further addressed. Genomic sequencing will detect viral mutations capable to affect performance of diagnostic tools and medical countermeasures. Surveillance should be contextualized to urban frameworks, prone to correct existing gaps, and conducted together with community members. Vaccines and therapeutics would be used through randomized controlled trials and MEURI protocol, while their safety and efficacy data are collected. Additional funding will support logistics for vaccines and therapeutics. Their acceptability will be facilitated by a good communication plan and community engagement forerunning field actions. The crisis response organizations should be endowed with all the resources necessary to masterfully manage their activities. Scientists should initiate inter-institutional collaboration to ensure their alignment to same purposes. The response to ongoing emergency should be conducted through specific working groups and supported by the Government and partners.

Received August 22^th, 2024

Accepted September 10^th, 2024

https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/aamed.v17i4.1