Press action medeor

Especially in the eastern part of the country, near the border with Burundi, cases of the disease are increasing. In the South Kivu region, where action medeor has been active for years—not due to the epidemic, but because the people in this region are in a difficult humanitarian situation—the outbreak is now also affecting the humanitarian work on the ground.

"In the border region with Burundi, there are armed conflicts, causing many people to flee. Tens of thousands live in refugee camps in close quarters, making it particularly easy for Mpox to spread here," reports Emmanuel Limi, who is responsible for humanitarian projects in Congo at action medeor. "We must act now to prevent the spread and protect the children who are disproportionately affected by infections," says Limi. The governments in Burundi and the DRC have already responded, implementing initial protective measures and defining various pillars of international aid. "We are now assessing in which areas action medeor can contribute to containing the epidemic," Limi informs.

Specifically, action medeor is considering how to support healthcare personnel in eastern DRC. "There is currently a lack of protective equipment and laboratory capacity to diagnose and treat suspected cases," Limi describes the situation. "We are examining whether we can supply missing components from Germany or from our location in Tanzania, thus contributing to ensuring that the necessary resources are available."

Additionally, the aid organization plans to distribute masks, disinfectants, and protective clothing to health stations, install additional handwashing stations, and carry out public awareness campaigns.

A problem is that schools are starting again, which could lead to further chains of infection. However, "We are very well connected in the region through our local partners and will use all available logistical and financial means to help the people."

To provide aid, action medeor relies on donations. "We are very hopeful for the support of our donors. The more support we receive, the more financial resources we can deploy, and the more people we can help."

Those who wish to support the work of action medeor can do so with a donation. This can be done online at www.medeor.de—where you can also leave an address for a donation receipt—or traditionally via IBAN DE78320500000000009993 at Sparkasse Krefeld, donation keyword: "Emergency aid worldwide."

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