Rising Mpox Cases in Burundi

Mr. Irambona has been diagnosed with mpox, a viral infection that has recently emerged in Burundi. The country has not reported any fatalities linked to the outbreak of the new strain, Clade 1b, but the lack of testing capacity in affected areas makes it difficult to assess the virus's severity. Close contact transmission appears to be a primary mode of spread, with Mr. Irambona reportedly passing the virus to his wife. In Bujumbura, the capital, one of three designated mpox treatment centers is struggling to manage the situation. Hospital officials have begun setting up tents outside to accommodate the influx of patients, with designated areas for triage, suspected cases, and confirmed cases awaiting transfer to wards. However, the country faces significant challenges, including a single laboratory capable of testing blood samples for mpox, insufficient testing kits, and a lack of vaccines. The public health response is hampered by limited access to basic resources, such as clean water, which complicates efforts to maintain hygiene in the city. Health centers are reporting suspected cases, but delays in laboratory response times hinder timely testing. Health officials estimate that approximately $14 million is needed to enhance the response to the outbreak. Public awareness of mpox remains low, with many residents in Bujumbura unfamiliar with the disease. Conversations with locals reveal that most have only encountered information about mpox through social media, highlighting the urgent need for increased education and outreach efforts.