Recent UNICEF data reveals an alarming increase in cases of mpox in Burundi among children aged 5 to 19, now accounting for 33% of all cases. As the new school year gets underway, schools and parents are sounding the alarm and taking measures to protect students.
At a school in western Burundi, staff are stepping up to keep students and themselves safe. The headmaster of the school “Les Petits Trésors” explains: “When they line up in front of the flag, they have to keep their distance to avoid contact with their friends. And they have to wash their hands.”
In recent weeks, the country has seen a more than 40% increase in mpox cases. Hundreds of cases have been reported since July.
Across the border, neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo is also facing a surge in mpox cases. The World Health Organization recently stated that suspected cases in the DRC account for the majority of the nearly 30,000 cases recorded in Africa since the beginning of the year.
In August, WHO declared the outbreak of the disease in parts of Africa a public health emergency. Beyond Africa, a few cases have been confirmed in countries such as Sweden and Pakistan.
The current situation raises concerns about the spread of mpox and highlights the importance of preventive measures such as respecting barrier gestures and hand hygiene. It is essential that health authorities step up their actions to stem the spread of the disease and raise awareness among the population about the importance of protecting the youngest, who are particularly exposed.
The whole world must remain vigilant in the face of this situation and work together to contain the disease and preserve the health of all.