Evaluation of the Mpox Surveillance System in the Wangata Health Zone, Équateur Province, Democratic Republic of Congo: January to December 2025
Abstract
Background
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that has become a significant public health concern in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Équateur Province, particularly the Wangata Health Zone, has been identified as a high-risk area with recurrent outbreaks. An effective surveillance system is essential for early detection, rapid response, and outbreak control.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the Mpox surveillance system in the Wangata Health Zone, Équateur Province, from January to December 2025, by assessing its essential functions, support functions, and key attributes as recommended by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional evaluative study was conducted. Data were collected from 14 health facilities, 18 healthcare providers involved in Mpox surveillance and response, and surveillance records of 173 suspected cases reported during the study period. A standardized questionnaire was administered, and surveillance records were reviewed. Key attributes assessed included usefulness, simplicity, sensitivity, specificity, acceptability, stability, timeliness, data quality, and representativeness.
Results
All health facilities (100%) had investigation forms and response plans. Line lists were available in 86% of facilities, contact identification and follow-up forms in 79%. However, only 29% had up-to-date dashboards, and 21% had epidemiological graphs. Timeliness was relatively good, with 89% of samples arriving at the laboratory within 72 hours and results received within 48 hours. The positive predictive value was 47% (81 confirmed among 173 suspected cases), and sample adequacy was 53%. Data quality was poor, with only 21% of notification forms being complete. The system demonstrated high usefulness (100%) and specificity (100%), moderate simplicity (71%) and acceptability (72%), but low sensitivity (64%) and very low stability (14%). Most providers (78%) were trained in Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response, but only 50% had training in biosafety, 56% in sample management, and 44% in database management.
Conclusion
The Mpox surveillance system in the Wangata Health Zone is functional and useful but faces critical challenges in stability, data quality, and sensitivity. Strengthening provider training, ensuring adequate resources, and improving feedback mechanisms are essential for enhancing system performance and achieving effective outbreak control.
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How to cite
Libolama Begobisia, P. (2026). Evaluation of the Mpox Surveillance System in the Wangata Health Zone, Équateur Province, Democratic Republic of Congo: January to December 2025. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0051-evaluation-of-the-mpox-surveillance-system-in-the-wangata-health-zone