Expanding mpox outbreak placing children and vulnerable communities in Africa at risk: UNICEF

Burundi is currently experiencing the highest number of infections, with 170 confirmed cases across 26 out of 49 districts as of August 20, 2024.

A rapidly expanding outbreak of mpox is placing children and vulnerable communities in Eastern and Southern Africa at significant risk, according to UNICEF. More than 200 confirmed cases have been reported across five countries—Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa—with the new mpox variant (clade Ib) identified in all affected nations except South Africa.

Burundi is currently experiencing the highest number of infections, with 170 confirmed cases across 26 out of 49 districts as of August 20, 2024. Disturbingly, nearly 60% of the cases involve children and adolescents under the age of 20, with children under 5 comprising 21% of those infected. The situation is exacerbated by concurrent measles outbreaks and high malnutrition rates, which further endanger children in Burundi.

UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva Kadilli, emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the new strain of mpox poses a serious threat to vulnerable children and families. Kadilli called for an immediate lifesaving response, including risk communication, cross-border collaboration, and investments in health system strengthening to ensure the continuity of essential services.

The outbreak's secondary impacts on children are also of significant concern. Stigma, discrimination, and disruptions to education are prevalent, while women and girls face heightened risks of gender-based violence as they take on increased caregiving responsibilities. Drawing on lessons from past public health emergencies such as HIV, COVID-19, and Ebola, UNICEF stressed the importance of supporting survivors, combating stigma, and ensuring children’s reintegration into schools and communities.

In addition to the mpox outbreak, Kenya, Burundi, and Uganda are grappling with multiple emergencies, including drought and floods, compounding the challenges in protecting vulnerable populations.

UNICEF, in collaboration with WHO, Africa CDC, and local partners, is actively responding to the outbreak by intensifying risk communication and community engagement. The organization is urgently appealing for $16.5 million to scale up response efforts across the region, with funding needs expected to evolve as the situation develops.

Kadilli underscored the urgency of the response, stating, "In the fight against the mpox outbreak, prioritizing the needs of children is not just necessary—it's urgent. Their heightened vulnerability requires that we dedicate our full attention and resources to ensure their protection and well-being in this critical response phase."