**Burundi facing a health crisis: between silence and criticism**
Since the outbreak of the mpox epidemic in Burundi, the health situation has been increasingly worrying, provoking both silence from the authorities and criticism from health professionals. While the country is the second most affected in the world by this disease after the Democratic Republic of Congo, daily reports on the evolution of the epidemic have not been published for more than three months. This lack of transparency raises questions about the management of the crisis by Burundian officials.
The main focus of the epidemic is in the Kamenge University Hospital in Bujumbura, where many cases of mpox continue to be diagnosed daily. However, the media are prohibited from accessing treatment centers, and awareness-raising among the population seems insufficient. This lack of information leads to non-compliance with barrier measures, promoting the spread of the virus in buses, places of worship and political gatherings.
A doctor denounces a “catastrophic” management of the health crisis, highlighting similarities with the management of the Covid-19 pandemic a few years ago. Indeed, despite a sawtooth epidemiological curve showing a progression of the virus, the Burundian government seems to turn a blind eye to the reality of the situation. Statistics reveal an average of 40 new cases per day, but many suspected cases are not investigated, leaving doubts about the real scale of the epidemic.
Health professionals also criticize the authorities’ refusal to vaccinate people at risk, a practice that is common in neighboring countries. Given the seriousness of the situation, it is difficult to understand why Burundi is neglecting this preventive measure, especially as it is the second country most affected by mpox. This decision raises questions about the strategy adopted by the government to contain the epidemic.
In conclusion, the health crisis linked to mpox in Burundi reveals shortcomings in the management of the situation by the authorities, endangering public health and the safety of citizens. It is imperative that adequate measures are taken urgently to stem the spread of the virus and protect the vulnerable population. The opacity of information and the lack of clear communication only fuel doubts and criticisms, leaving a feeling of uncertainty about the future of the fight against this devastating disease.