Monkeypox outbreak reaches alarming levels in Ecuador, Oxfam responds

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The monkeypox (MPox) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has reached alarming levels, with more than 15,000 cases and more than 540 deaths reported in the country since the beginning of the year. Oxfam is responding immediately, particularly in the worst-affected province of Equateur.

Justin Tosu GomisOxfam’s DRC Country Director said: “The situation in Ecuador is particularly concerning, with more than 320 deaths reported. Given the urgency of the situation, our priority is to act quickly and effectively to protect the health and well-being of those affected. With everyone’s support, we can stop the spread of the disease and protect those who are most vulnerable.”.

Oxfam, working closely with national authorities and partners, aims to support around 80,000 people in Mbandaka, Bikoro, Bolenge, Tondo and Ingende provinces by raising awareness on hygiene and prevention, clean water and sanitation, while strengthening community engagement and preparedness of health facilities.

“Our response builds on Oxfam’s long experience in public health and hygiene programming in Ecuador since Ebola. We will work with local communities and partners to provide hygiene and sanitation kits and information on how to prevent contamination with the virus.””, Mr. Tosu added.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Wednesday that the monkeypox outbreak has affected several African countries, constituting a public health emergency of international concern. Oxfam is closely monitoring the situation in these countries to assess needs.

The Minister of Health, Sanitation and Social Welfare of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has presented an alarming report on the monkeypox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and called on the entire community to change behavior to curb the spread of the epidemic.

Notes to Editors

Spokespersons are always available;
Oxfam has been working in Equateur Province since 2002 and works in the areas of water, hygiene, sanitation, health and education. We are currently implementing water, hygiene, sanitation, protection and gender equality actions in the four health zones most affected by the monkeypox outbreak (Mbandaka, Bikoro, Lotombe and Iboko);
According to the latest epidemiological report from the Ministry of Health, 15,664 potential cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo so far this year, with 548 deaths. The worst-affected provinces are Equateur, South Kivu, South Ubangi, Sankuru, Shuapa, Mongala and Tchopo;
Equateur province has the highest number of cases, with 321 deaths.