WFP supports MPOX vaccination campaign in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
KINSHASA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has transported 35,000 vaccines to three affected provinces as Democratic Republic of the Congo’s vaccination campaign, led by the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention, with support from UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa CDC and Gavi gets underway.
The WFP managed, United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), is airlifting vaccines into the worst affected areas and will handle logistics for vaccine deliveries to the provinces of Congo Central, Maniema, Sankuru, South Kivu and South Ubangi. While UNICEF will manage deliveries to Equateur, Nord Kivu, Tshopo, and Tshuapa. WFP is also supporting with cold chain management to ensure proper storage, transport and emergency handling of vaccines.
“This is a critical time in the DR Congo for those most at risk from this epidemic. We are working with our partners and the Government to ensure the vaccines are delivered safely and in a timely manner,’’ said WFP Country Director, Peter Musoko. ‘’Families are already facing acute food insecurity and the threat of Mpox will likely deepen their vulnerability.’’
As well as working with the Government and WHO’s task force on the national Mpox response plan, WFP is also adapting its food and nutrition assistance during the epidemic, ensuring continued support to affected populations. This includes the prevention and management of acute malnutrition among the most vulnerable groups, such as children under five and pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
The DRC has reported more than 30,000 cases of Mpox and 990 related deaths since the start of the year – accounting for 90 percent of the cases reported from 15 African countries.
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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.
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