Burundi is facing a health crisis as 193 people are hospitalized with Mpox, a disease that has affected 231 individuals so far, with 38 treated and discharged. The Ministry of Public Health is working on public sensitization to prevent further spread, especially in districts like North Bujumbura and Kayanza. Lack of healthcare resources and sanitation in Bujumbura is exacerbating the situation, with the need for clean water and improved facilities. Additionally, there are rising cases of sexually transmitted Mpox being reported.
The government is seeking funds to combat the disease, with support from WHO and CDC Africa. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has been a concern in Africa since 1970, leading to a global health emergency in 2022 and a new outbreak this year. The attention is now on a new strain of the virus, clade Ib, prompting renewed efforts to address the situation.