Crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Mpox Outbreak Affects Children Most Severely

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is at the center of a concerning mpox outbreak, with over half of reported cases affecting children under the age of 15. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared this situation a public health emergency of international concern, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated global action. The outbreak has also spread to neighboring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. UNICEF is actively collaborating with the WHO and other partners to address the outbreak, which poses a significant risk to children. The current strain of mpox, while similar in symptoms to smallpox, is particularly dangerous for younger populations. The WHO's declaration on August 14 followed a similar warning from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention in tropical rainforest areas where the disease is prevalent. In response to the crisis, UNICEF has been implementing preventative measures since early this year and is now working with government partners to develop a comprehensive strategy. This includes public information campaigns aimed at reducing stigma associated with the virus, which is crucial for encouraging individuals to seek help and support. Experts, including Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the emergency committee of independent experts, stress that the mpox outbreak is not just a regional issue but a global emergency. The need for a coordinated international response is critical to halt the spread of the disease and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children.