Measles Outbreak in Eastern DRC: Vaccination Challenges Amidst Conflict
A measles outbreak is impacting North Kivu and South Kivu provinces in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompting health professionals to emphasize the urgent need for catch-up vaccination campaigns. The ongoing conflict, particularly involving the M23 armed group, is significantly hindering these efforts.
Conflict Disrupts Vaccination Efforts
The war is causing widespread population displacement and the closure of vital health facilities. Restrictions on humanitarian operations, including at airports in Goma and Bukavu, are slowing the delivery of essential vaccination supplies 1. These logistical challenges are contributing to insufficient vaccination rates among children.
Alarming Case Numbers in 2025 and 2026
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported over 82,869 suspected cases of measles and 1,175 deaths across the DRC throughout 2025 1. As of the seventh epidemiological week of 2026 (February 9-15), South Kivu province alone had recorded 600 measles cases and four deaths, bringing the total for the year to 3,060 cases and 14 deaths 1.
Complications and Contributing Factors
Delayed diagnosis and treatment of measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems 1. Limited access to healthcare in remote areas like Kitutu, Mulungu, and Minova, coupled with insufficient medical supplies, exacerbates the problem. Malnutrition also plays a significant role, as malnourished children are more susceptible to infection.
Vaccination Coverage and Program Challenges
Vaccination coverage in South Kivu province was estimated at 80% in 2025, a rate considered insufficient given the population dynamics 1. Challenges include mothers not returning for the second dose of the measles vaccine at 15 months due to population movement. The war also contributes to food insecurity, further weakening children’s immune systems and disrupting the health system, leading to healthcare worker displacement and facility looting 1.
Efforts to Improve Access and Immunity
Experts recommend improving access to vaccination services, strengthening vaccine acceptance within communities, and consolidating the health system to enhance the detection and management of measles, malnutrition, and malaria 1. The South Kivu Provincial Health Division has received a shipment of medicines from UNICEF to supply 11 of the province’s 34 health zones 1. A measles and rubella vaccination campaign is planned for March in seven of the most affected health zones.
MSF Response in Eastern DRC
MSF is actively responding to the growing needs of the population in areas like Walikale, and has expanded activities to address the impacts of the violent conflict across North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces 2, 3. Tragically, three MSF staff members were killed in North Kivu during 2025 1, and health centers supported by MSF were hit by stray bullets 1.