The UK government has pledged £3.1 million to strengthen the efforts of scientists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in combating the spread of mpox. The funding, announced by UK Minister for Africa Ray Collins, aims to assist over 4.4 million people in affected areas and help curb the disease’s spread across the region.

During a visit to the Institute National de Recherche Biomedical (INRB) in the DRC, Collins highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing global health crises. “Working together with our partners and leveraging the expertise of Congolese scientists at this world-class research centre, our support will be critical in safeguarding global health security,” said Collins.

This financial backing forms part of a new partnership between the UK and UNICEF, with additional collaboration from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC. The move comes in response to the WHO's recent declaration of mpox as a public health emergency, underscoring the need for a swift, coordinated global response.

The UK’s contribution will aid in vaccine distribution and treatments while working closely with global health authorities to monitor and mitigate the outbreak’s impact.

 

Article by RB Reporter

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https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-steps-up-support-to-tackle-mpox-outbreak-on-visit-to-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo