Burundi has confirmed 171 cases of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, with 137 active cases, according to the health ministry.
The first cases were reported in late July, and the ministry has since set up isolation wards in district hospitals to care for patients.
The detected cases appear to be the “new variant” spreading in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, which has a higher mortality rate, especially among children. The World Health Organization has declared an international health emergency due to the recent outbreak.
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Burundi’s health ministry has reported no deaths from mpox so far, but the epidemic continues to spread. The country is taking measures to contain the outbreak, including creating isolation wards and tracing contacts.
The mpox outbreak is not limited to Burundi, with cases reported in the DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Asia, and Europe.
The situation highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to combat the spread of infectious diseases.
