Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 - Democratic Republic of the Congo

Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo reported an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) to WHO in January 2019. The disease outbreak is assessed as low-grade, indicating limited risk of immediate widespread transmission.

Supply-chain impact

• The Democratic Republic of Congo is a major mineral resource supplier in Central Africa, and disease outbreaks in key raw material production areas for cobalt, copper, and diamonds could potentially impact mining workforce operations
• Expanded vaccination campaigns are expected to increase demand for medical supplies and cold-chain logistics, leading to increased activity in related transportation and storage service sectors
• Due to the currently low risk level, border controls or trade restrictions are expected to be minimal, though preventive quarantine procedures may be strengthened for overland transport with neighboring countries

Watch points

• Need to track changes in infection spread scale and geographic scope through follow-up WHO reports
• Monitor whether the Congolese government declares a public health emergency and any resulting operational constraints on mining and logistics operations