Burundi has seen a significant reduction in mpox cases as of early 2025, with 21 new cases reported recently. The country has prioritized clinical care through extensive training of health workers and community engagement, resulting in improved patient management. Although only one death has been recorded, efforts continue in collaboration with the WHO to manage and contain the outbreak effectively.
Since the beginning of 2025, Burundi has experienced a decline in mpox cases, averaging 70 new cases per week. As reported on 26 February, just 21 new cases were confirmed, representing a nearly 95% reduction from the peak of 222 cases in late October 2024. Currently, only 15 of the 49 health districts are reporting active transmissions, down from 34 last September.
The response to the mpox outbreak includes a strong focus on providing adequate clinical care. With the assistance of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre in Burundi has trained and deployed 246 rapid response teams to bolster outbreak response capabilities. Dr. Ange Larissa Nsabiyumva from a rapid response team noted the initial fear and confusion surrounding the disease due to its physical symptoms.
In July 2024, Burundi declared a mpox outbreak, which has since resulted in 3568 recorded cases, including 147 hospitalizations and the recovery of 3420 individuals by the end of February 2025. Contributing factors to the outbreak included overcrowding, inadequate access to clean water, and stigma towards the disease which hindered healthcare professionals’ ability to administer treatment. Dr. Nsabiyumva highlighted how training improved health workers’ confidence in managing the disease.
Furthermore, a total of 83 district and provincial head doctors have been trained on clinical care protocols and supervising community health workers responsible for patient monitoring. More than 90 community health workers and 40 health promotion officers have also received training on contact tracing and patient follow-ups for a period of 21 days. Dr. Armel Bitaneza emphasized the importance of treating mpox patients with respect and care, which subsequently improved detection and follow-up of cases.
Community health workers are enhancing surveillance efforts by promptly referring patients exhibiting symptoms to treatment centers. An example is Tharcisse, a Bujumbura resident, who shared his experience of being referred to the hospital after developing symptoms consistent with mpox. He commended the medical team’s dedication to his care, emphasizing the urgency of halting disease spread in the country.
Thus far, Burundi has recorded only one mpox-related death. Health authorities, with WHO support, are continually enhancing their response by decentralizing diagnosis, supplying medical kits, and employing experts for rapid case detection. WHO has further aided in developing treatment guidelines and engaging with communities. Dr. Issa Diallo from WHO remarked on the critical role of health actors in effectively responding to outbreaks, underscoring the importance of understanding the infection for successful management.
Burundi has successfully reduced mpox cases through organized response efforts since early 2025. Key measures include the training of healthcare teams and community health workers, contributing to improved patient care and timely identification of cases. Continued collaboration with WHO remains pivotal for sustaining these efforts and managing outbreaks effectively. The response highlights the importance of education and community engagement in overcoming public health challenges.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
