Belgian Red Cross-Flanders intensifies efforts against mpox outbreak: increases financial support and sends staff member on site

In response to the AfricaCDC's alarming figures on the recent mpox outbreak in Central and East Africa, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders is stepping up its humanitarian assistance in the region. Since January 2024, suspected mpox infections have risen to 24,783 - 77% more than in mid-August - of which 5,549 have been confirmed. The number of deaths rose to 643 - 26% more than in mid-August - while experts warn that these figures may underestimate the real situation. Children are particularly affected. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, as many as 63% of cases and 81% of deaths are children under the age of 15.

Deployment Emergency Fund

In response to this humanitarian crisis, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders is releasing an additional €50,000 from its Emergency Relief Fund, on top of the €50,000 previously donated. These funds will be used for sensitization, monitoring and hygiene measures in the affected regions (DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and Kenya) to contain the spread of the virus. 

Belgian Red Cross-Flanders Sends employee to region

In addition, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders is sending an operations manager to the Central African Republic who will strengthen coordination of aid on the ground.

The operations manager will oversee cooperation between local departments and international aid workers and monitoring of the crisis. She will ensure that humanitarian aid is implemented efficiently, security risks are closely monitored and finances are managed responsibly. This commitment is critical to effectively coordinating the response and providing continued support to the local population.

Warm call

Those who want to help stop this serious outbreak can do so by making a donation to account number BE53 0000 0000 5353 with the mention 'Mpox'. Every donation helps to reduce the impact of this epidemic and save lives.