Sunday, February 9, 2025

Burundi Moves To Fight Spread Of Mpox As It Ravages School Children

Burundi is intensifying its battle against Mpox, with a focus on schools, following a worrying spike in cases among young children. The virus has disproportionately affected children under 5, who account for 30% of reported cases, prompting concerns among parents, educators, and health authorities.

To combat the spread, schools like ‘Les petits trésors’ in western Burundi are implementing stringent preventive measures.

“We’re taking every precaution to safeguard our students,” says the school’s director. “From maintaining social distancing during assembly to regular handwashing, we’re committed to creating a safe environment.”

UNICEF reports that children aged 5-19 now account for 33% of Mpox cases in Burundi. The country has witnessed a 40% surge in cases since July, with hundreds affected.

READ MORE: TikTok Moves To Empower Creators, Launches Revamped Subscription

Neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo is also grappling with a rising caseload, contributing to the nearly 30,000 reported cases in Africa this year.
The World Health Organization’s declaration of the outbreak as a public health emergency in August has galvanized response efforts.

UNICEF is collaborating with health authorities and partners to accelerate outbreak response measures, prioritizing vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and underserved communities.

Burundi’s education sector is playing a vital role in stemming the tide of Mpox. By instilling good hygiene practices and promoting awareness, schools can help mitigate the virus’s spread.

As the new academic year unfolds, Burundi’s commitment to protecting its children from Mpox serves as a testament to the nation’s resilience and determination.

Hot this week

Energy Independence: How Dangote Group Generates 1,540 MW for Its Operations

The Dangote Group, led by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote,...

Trump Freezes Aid to South Africa Over Land Seizure Law

In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has...

How FRSC recovered 73 Stolen Vehicles Across Nigeria in 2024

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) made a breakthrough,...

Trump Signs Order Barring Transgender Athletes from Women’s Sports

In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump has...

UN Commits $2.5 Billion to Fight Hunger and Malnutrition in Nigeria

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced...

Proposed 31 New States Could Add Strain to Nigeria’s Fragile Economy – Mike Ozekhome

The Nigerian House of Representatives' proposal to create 31...

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s Founding Father, Dies at 95

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s Founding Father, Dies at 95 Namibia is...

Tinubu’s Authority Challenged as GAC Backs Obasa’s Removal in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu’s long-standing dominance over Lagos politics is...

Trump Freezes Aid to South Africa Over Land Seizure Law

In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has...

Energy Independence: How Dangote Group Generates 1,540 MW for Its Operations

The Dangote Group, led by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote,...

Aging Infrastructure Drives NPA’s 15% Hike in Port Charges

Nigeria’s maritime industry is set for a shift as...

We Will Not Be Bullied’: Ramaphosa Responds to U.S. Criticism on Land Reform

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed that his...

Related Articles

Popular Categories