MASISI, Democratic Republic of Congo — A campaign to vaccinate tens of thousands of children against measles continued Monday in Masisi Territory, where local health authorities, supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), are battling an outbreak that has left thousands sick.
Families Seeking Protection
In Rubaya, parents rushed to vaccination sites. “Since we know the vaccine is necessary and protects the children, we were happy to bring them here,” said Silas Bazimaziki Rugiriki, who brought his son for immunization.
Nearby, the measles isolation ward at Kachehembe hospital was full of mothers with young patients. “I thought it was just a fever, but then I realized the child had measles,” said Irène Shashire, a 21-year-old mother.
Conflict Complicates Response
MSF’s measles response lead, Dr. Toussaint Selemani, said population movements caused by conflict have complicated the campaign. “The target population we estimated is now more than that because of displacement,” he explained.
The region is also facing multiple epidemics, including cholera and mpox.
Humanitarian Crisis
Masisi, home to one of the world’s largest coltan deposits, has been under M23 rebel control since earlier this year. The group’s advance has killed around 3,000 people in 2025 and worsened what is already one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with 7 million displaced.
Despite recent peace efforts, clashes continue. The DRC and Rwanda are expected to sign a peace deal in Washington on Thursday.