Measles Death Toll Surpasses 6,000 In Democratic Republic Of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing the world's largest measles outbreak, with over 310,000 cases reported since 2019. Despite vaccinating over 18 million children, challenges like medical kit shortages and violence hinder efforts. Resources are diverted to the Ebola crisis, even though measles has caused more deaths. The WHO has raised $27 million but seeks an additional $40 million to vaccinate older children.

What makes the measles outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo significant?

• It is the smallest outbreak in the world.

• It is the largest outbreak of the infectious disease globally.

• It has affected only a few hundred people.

• It is the first outbreak in the region.

What are some challenges faced in vaccinating children in Congo?

• Abundance of medical kits

• Easy access to healthcare

• Shortages of medical kits and attacks on treatment centers

• High vaccination rates

How does the death toll from measles compare to Ebola in Congo?

• Measles has claimed fewer lives than Ebola.

• Ebola has claimed more lives than measles.

• Measles and Ebola have claimed the same number of lives.

• Measles has claimed three times as many lives as Ebola.

How much additional funding is WHO seeking to vaccinate older children in Congo?

• $10 million

• $60 million

• $20 million

• $40 million

What age group is WHO aiming to vaccinate with the additional funding?

• Infants under 1

• Children under 5

• Adults over 18

• Children between 6 and 14