DRC's 2025 Measles Outbreak Exposes Gaps in a Fragile Health System

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) grappled with a catastrophic measles epidemic in 2025, with over 82,869 suspected cases and 1,175 fatalities. This outbreak occurred amidst chronic underfunding, conflict, and a strained health system struggling to respond effectively.

The epidemic's epicenter was eastern DRC, where prolonged conflict had already displaced communities and hindered healthcare access. Poor roads and vast, challenging terrain made vaccination campaigns even more difficult, leaving many children unprotected. Measles, a nearly entirely preventable disease with two vaccine doses, spread rapidly due to low immunisation coverage.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) intervened, deploying teams across six provinces between February and June 2025. Their efforts included treating around 20,870 patients and vaccinating over 1.1 million children. Despite this, the broader humanitarian response remained severely underfunded—only 20 percent of the 2025 plan was financed, with health and sanitation sectors bearing the brunt.

The DRC's health system, already fragile, struggled with disease surveillance and immunisation efforts. Authorities and aid groups have since emphasised the need for sustained collaboration to bolster vaccination drives and prevent future outbreaks.

The 2025 measles outbreak laid bare deep vulnerabilities in the DRC's health infrastructure. Without increased funding and coordinated support, similar crises could recur, putting more children at risk. Continued investment in immunisation campaigns and disease monitoring remains crucial to safeguard communities.