Mpox Outbreak in Congo's Gold Mining Town Declared Global Health Emergency

A new strain of mpox in Kamituga, South Kivu is spreading rapidly amid lack of resources, vaccines, and information.

Over 6,000 suspected mpox cases have been reported in South Kivu province, with Kamituga identified as the epicenter.
The World Health Organization has declared the outbreaks in Congo and other African countries a global health emergency.
Eastern Congo's existing issues, including conflict, displacement, and strained health services, complicate containment efforts.
Only 250,000 of the 3 million needed vaccine doses have arrived in Congo, with distribution to affected areas still weeks away.
Local health officials and aid groups emphasize the urgent need for vaccines, education, and grassroots health campaigns to stem the spread.