Health authorities have reported a significant increase in measles cases in the eastern North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Over 6,400 cases have been registered since January, including 36 deaths. The hardest hit zones in North-Kivu are Mweso town and Oïcha city, where vaccination campaigns have already been carried out.

According to reports, the increase in cases in Mweso is attributed to the influx of internally displaced persons from unvaccinated areas, as fighting continues in Masisi and Rutshuru territories. Measles is a highly contagious disease, and the close living conditions of displaced persons make them particularly vulnerable to the spread of the virus.

Health authorities and humanitarian organizations are responding to the outbreak and securing treatment for infected people to contain the disease. Vaccination campaigns have already been carried out in the affected areas, and efforts are underway to reach more people with the vaccine.

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that can cause severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis. Children under five years of age are particularly vulnerable to the disease. The outbreak in North Kivu is a reminder of the importance of vaccination campaigns and the need to provide access to vaccines in all areas of the country.

The government and health authorities are calling on the public to take preventative measures, such as washing hands and avoiding contact with infected persons. They are also urging parents to ensure that their children are up-to-date on their vaccinations.

The situation in North Kivu is being closely monitored, and efforts are underway to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.