A U.N. health official on Friday has indicated that the mpox outbreak in Burundi could potentially be contained within weeks, emphasizing that success will rely heavily on securing adequate resources and tackling the stigma surrounding the disease.
The outbreak, which has recently drawn significant attention, was declared an emergency in August following the identification of a new variant of the virus. As of now, Burundi has reported nearly 600 cases, positioning it as the second most affected country after the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the outbreaks appear to be localized, with no deaths reported thus far, which offers a glimmer of hope for effective containment.
Paul Ngwakum, the Regional Health Advisor for UNICEF, expressed optimism about the possibility of quickly ending the outbreak, provided that necessary support is mobilized. He stated, “We can limit the spread and potentially end it without any lives lost,” underscoring the critical role of resources and public awareness in this effort. Ngwakum highlighted that combating stigma is essential, as fear and misinformation may deter individuals from seeking help. He urged for increased public awareness to “dispel myths and calm fears,” pointing out that if people remain scared and hesitant to come forward, efforts to control the outbreak could be severely hampered.
In light of the current situation, UNICEF is appealing for nearly $60 million to support Burundi and five other countries affected by mpox. This funding is crucial not only for medical resources but also for community outreach programs aimed at education and stigma reduction. Ngwakum noted that about two-thirds of those infected in Burundi are children, which raises significant concerns about their education and wellbeing during this public health crisis. In response, UNICEF is working to revive remote learning initiatives that were utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that children can continue their studies from home or while hospitalized.
Mpox is a viral infection characterized by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled blisters. While the illness is generally mild for most individuals, it can lead to severe complications and even death, particularly among those with existing health conditions or malnutrition. The situation is particularly dire in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, where over 700 fatalities have been recorded among more than 21,000 suspected cases, according to health data. The ongoing outbreak remains a significant concern, as cases have been reported in 15 African countries, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated public health efforts to regain control over the situation.
As health officials and organizations mobilize to address the outbreak, the emphasis on resource allocation and stigma reduction will be vital in safeguarding public health and ensuring that communities are equipped to respond effectively to the challenges posed by mpox.
