More than 250 human blood samples were collected from suspected individuals in DRC and RoC, 95 animal samples (across six species mainly bats and squirrels), 75 wastewater samples and 18 air samples. RT-PCR testing of human samples identified 54 positives, while air samples yielded 9 positives (50% positivity), indicating environmental contamination. Analyses of wastewater samples and further metagenomic sequencing are ongoing to determine clade identity.
For the KAP studies, 2,366 quantitative respondents and 50 qualitative participants across Brazzaville, Plateaux, Cuvette, Likouala and additional 63 participants in Mbomo responded to the KAP questionnaires in the Republic of the Congo. The KAP studies were conducted in 3 health zones of Maï-Ndombe where more than 300 community members and 46 key informants participated. In DRC, insights reveal major knowledge gaps, strong cultural interpretations of disease, high willingness to vaccinate, and varied adoption of preventive practices. A geospatial database integrating epidemiological, environmental, climatic, and demographic data was successfully developed. Mapping of potential MPXV reservoir habitats has been completed. Early-stage mathematical and spatio-temporal models established for MPXV spread are still undergoing.
Looking at the results so far, the project is generating several novel contributions. The simultaneous collection of humans, animal, environmental, and behavioral data at shared geographic sites is unprecedented in the Congo Basin. This provides a unique foundation for cross-sectoral transmission analysis. The detection of MPXV in 50% of air samples from hospital settings represents new evidence with implications for nosocomial transmission and IPC guidelines. Large-scale KAP datasets from remote and peri-urban communities offer the most comprehensive Mpox behavioral evidence available in Central Africa, enabling culturally adapted risk communication. The modelling infrastructure enables future risk forecasting, integration of climatic trends, and simulation of cross-border transmission influenced by mobility along the Congo River. Training in RT-PCR, metagenomics, sample collection, REDCap use, and GCP/GCLP standards enhances long-term national research capacity. These innovations lay the groundwork for improved surveillance, earlier outbreak detection, and more effective public health strategies.
The results obtained from this project are expected to contribute to the gap of epidemiological data, better understanding of transmission, improved diagnostics and surveillance, adapting preventive communication messages to the target populations in DRC and RoC and strengthening public health response and research capacity.
