Republic of Congo to vaccinate health workers against Ebola
The preventive campaign, which starts on November 16, targets health professionals and other staff most exposed to the virus.
The Republic of Congo will begin vaccinating health workers against Ebola on November 16. Health Minister Jean Rosaire Ibara announced the campaign on November 13 in Brazzaville, saying it will prioritise health professionals and other staff likely to be exposed to the virus in their duties.
Ibara said the aim is to protect these workers before any possible outbreak and to strengthen the national health system's ability to respond to Ebola threats. He stressed that the campaign is preventive and does not mean Ebola has been declared in the country, even though the virus is already near the national territory.
The vaccination adds to measures already under way, including stronger epidemiological surveillance, infection prevention and control, preparation of health facilities and screening at entry points. Ibara called on health facility managers to make every arrangement for the operation to succeed and urged the public to stay vigilant and follow prevention guidelines.
Why it mattersHealth workers who treat patients will be the first to be protected, with vaccinations beginning in the coming days.