Mpox, an emergency for children

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a significant public health crisis is unfolding due to mpox, a viral disease that has particularly affected children. Since the beginning of the year, nearly 20,000 cases have been reported, with around 60% of those cases involving minors under 15 years old. Tragically, approximately 80% of the fatalities from the virus are children in this age group, highlighting the severe impact of the outbreak on the youngest and most vulnerable populations. The new variant of the mpox virus, Clade 1b, poses an increased risk of rapid transmission, especially to children and pregnant women. This situation is exacerbated by existing challenges in the DRC, such as conflicts, displacement, and malnutrition, which further endanger children's health and safety. The outbreak has also raised concerns about the mental health of affected children, who may experience stigma and discrimination. Organizations like UNICEF are actively responding to the crisis by raising awareness about mpox and its prevention. They are also providing medical and hygiene kits to manage and treat confirmed cases, ensuring that essential services continue for children and pregnant women. Addressing malnutrition and offering psychosocial support are critical components of the response to mitigate the outbreak's impact on communities. The ongoing situation underscores the need for comprehensive research to better understand the virus and its effects on society. The lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic emphasize the importance of prioritizing children's best interests during public health emergencies to prevent further suffering among vulnerable populations.