WHO Deputy Executive Director Visits DRC to Strengthen Mpox Advocacy
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Deputy Executive Director of the World Health Organization’s Emergency Program, is set to embark on a crucial mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo from January 15th to January 25th, 2025. The primary goal of this visit is to bolster advocacy efforts surrounding the response to the Mpox epidemic.
During his stay, Dr. Ihekweazu plans to engage in high-level meetings with government officials, donors, and health partners in the DRC. Additionally, he will conduct field visits to assess the progress of Mpox epidemic response efforts in Kinshasa. Furthermore, Dr. Ihekweazu will participate in the inauguration of the Mpox reference center in Kinshasa, a project made possible through the support of the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In Goma, located in the North Kivu province, he will hold discussions with local authorities to escalate the ongoing efforts while reaffirming WHO’s support. According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Health, the DRC has reported a total of 66,063 Mpox cases since the outbreak began, including 14,417 confirmed cases (positivity rate) and 1,366 deaths (lethality rate of 2.07%).
It is worth noting that the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Africa) declared the Mpox epidemic, also known as MonkeyPox or Variole du signe, a public health emergency on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, due to the surge in cases across the African continent.
**Supporting Efforts in the Fight Against Mpox**
Dr. Ihekweazu’s visit underscores the critical importance of international cooperation and support in combating infectious diseases like Mpox. By engaging with key stakeholders and assessing the situation on the ground, he aims to strengthen advocacy efforts and enhance the response to the epidemic in the DRC.
**Challenges and Progress in Mpox Response**
The significant number of Mpox cases and fatalities in the DRC highlight the challenges faced by healthcare systems in addressing emerging infectious diseases. However, the inauguration of the Mpox reference center in Kinshasa represents a positive step towards improving surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment of Mpox cases in the region.
**Global Health Security and Epidemic Preparedness**
Dr. Ihekweazu’s mission exemplifies the WHO’s commitment to enhancing global health security and epidemic preparedness. By working closely with national authorities and health partners, the organization aims to mitigate the impact of infectious disease outbreaks and prevent future pandemics.
In conclusion, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu’s visit to the DRC serves as a critical step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen Mpox advocacy and response activities. His engagement with key stakeholders and field assessments will contribute to the collective fight against infectious diseases, ultimately safeguarding public health and well-being worldwide.