DR Congo starts mpox vaccination campaign in Goma to combat outbreak

The Democratic Republic of Congo has begun a vaccination campaign against mpox in Goma, three days later than planned due to logistical issues. The first doses were given to hospital staff, with broader vaccination for the general public starting Monday. The country has received 265,000 vaccine doses, primarily for adults, and is awaiting millions more from international partners. Health officials aim to prioritize high-risk groups, as over 30,000 mpox cases and 988 deaths have been reported this year. The World Health Organization has approved a new diagnostic test for mpox, with 4,500 tests pledged for the DRC. The disease, previously known as monkeypox, has been present in 16 African countries this year.