Amidst ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a measles vaccination campaign is urgently underway, offering a critical lifeline to vulnerable children. The effort,led by Doctors Without Borders,comes nearly a year into a deadly outbreak exacerbated by the presence of the M23 rebel group and the resulting disruption of healthcare services. Eastern DRC is facing a complex humanitarian crisis with ongoing outbreaks of multiple diseases, and this vaccination drive highlights the immense challenges of delivering aid and protecting public health in active war zones. The campaign specifically targets children under five in the North Kivu province, an area heavily impacted by displacement and violence.
KACHEHEMBE, Democratic Republic of the Congo (AP) — A critical vaccination campaign against measles is underway in an area of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo controlled by rebel forces, nearly a year after a deadly outbreak of the highly contagious disease began. This effort highlights the challenges of delivering healthcare in conflict zones and underscores the vulnerability of populations during humanitarian crises.
The advance of the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, into parts of the region earlier this year has severely disrupted healthcare access, according to residents and aid organizations. The ongoing conflict is exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in the area.
This week, anxious parents lined up in Kachehembe, North Kivu province, bringing their young children to receive the measles vaccine administered by Doctors Without Borders (MSF). The campaign focuses on vaccinating children under the age of five.
“The children are suffering a lot from this disease,” said Silas Bazimaziki Rugiriki, who brought his son for vaccination.
The DRC has been grappling with a significant measles outbreak this year, reporting more than 36,000 suspected cases and 565 deaths across nearly all of its 26 provinces as of July. Measles is a highly preventable disease, and outbreaks often signal gaps in vaccination coverage.
The outbreak is straining resources in the DRC, which is simultaneously responding to outbreaks of mpox (monkeypox) and Ebola, as well as navigating the ongoing threat posed by rebel groups.
Since January, the M23 rebel group has seized key towns in the mineral-rich eastern region, resulting in thousands of deaths. Peace efforts led by the United States and Qatar are continuing.
MSF reports having treated at least 1,000 children for measles in Kachehembe alone this year, with 11 fatalities. The organization notes that the constant influx of displaced families is increasing demand for vaccinations and medical care.
“The area is experiencing a constant flow of displaced families, which is increasing the demand,” Dr. Toussaint Selemani, medical director of MSF’s measles response, told The Associated Press.
At a nearby hospital, Selemani said 53 children are currently being treated for measles.
Sarah Noëlla, 37, watched over her 2-year-old son, Fariji Jacques, who she said developed a fever last week. He then developed red eyes and a rash around his mouth. Initially, Noëlla believed her son had the flu.
Other mothers described a rapid decline in their children’s health. Without financial resources, they said they rely on assistance from MSF.
“We are living in a war zone, we have nothing,” said Irène Shashire, 21, a mother of two.
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