The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is spiraling into chaos as nearly seven million people have been forcibly displaced by violence, primarily due to the recent advances of M23 rebels, according to the UN migration agency (IOM). This has led to one of the most complicated displacement crises globally.

With families crammed into overcrowded, under-resourced camps, the risk of both disease and violent attack grows by the day.

Since January 2025, over 660,000 individuals have fled the Goma region, especially after the government lost control of this key city and Bukavu to the south.

A Humanitarian Tipping Point

IOM warns that the scale of humanitarian needs has hit a tipping point as disturbing outbreaks of mpox and anthrax have emerged in the east.

Both diseases typically affect livestock, but worsening food insecurity due to ongoing conflicts and unsanitary conditions in camps mean human populations are increasingly at risk.

Infections on the Rise

These infections can be transmitted by contact with infected animals or contaminated materials. While anthrax is not contagious between humans, mpox is, as emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Mpox generally shows up with fever and rash; hospitalization is rare. However, anthrax is a serious concern that requires hospital treatment, with all confirmed human cases necessitating immediate medical attention.

Since March 22, after the tragic death of dozens of buffalo and hippos from anthrax poisoning in Virunga National Park, the region has reported 16 suspected human cases, one of which has tragically resulted in a death.

Response Efforts Underway

The WHO is actively assessing the threat of anthrax in DRC, aiming to curb any further spread of the infection.

As both anthrax and mpox can be treated with antibiotics and prevented through vaccination, WHO and its partners are stepping up to implement a comprehensive strategy focused on protecting human, animal, and environmental health.

Awareness campaigns are being launched, and vaccination programs for livestock against anthrax are now in full swing, as authorities scramble to prevent future outbreaks and safeguard vulnerable populations.