Taizhou doctor leads medical mission in Central African Republic

Wang Gengge holds a baby. [Photo provided by Wang Gengge for Tide News]

Wang Gengge, an infectious disease specialist from Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, served as head of the 20th Chinese medical team to the Central African Republic, leading 10 members through more than 500 days of service from December 2023 to June 2025.

Facing conflict, widespread infectious diseases, and scarce resources, they delivered care with skill and compassion — earning the trust and gratitude of local communities along the way. 

Wang saw the mission as an opportunity to confront diseases rarely seen in China, such as malaria, cholera, and monkeypox. Stationed in Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic, where infrastructure was limited, the team adapted by focusing on common and chronic illnesses.

Malaria cases were rampant — seven out of 10 patients tested positive — and even team members were affected. In one case, they saved a comatose patient with cerebral malaria through continuous care and global consultation.

When a monkeypox outbreak was declared in July 2024, the team swiftly organized training, produced educational materials, and distributed protective supplies.

Despite the harsh conditions, they fostered cultural exchanges, celebrated Chinese festivals with locals, and maintained morale through shared activities.

For Wang, the mission deepened his belief in medicine's role in building a shared future for global health — an experience he says he would undertake again in a heartbeat.