Children and vulnerable communities are in the crosshairs of a growing outbreak of MPOX in eastern and southern Africa. More than 200 cases have been confirmed in five countries (Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and South Africa), the UN Children’s Fund reported on Thursday. (UNICEF).
The new mpox virus variant (clade 1b) has been identified in all affected countries except South Africa, raising concerns due to its broader potential for transmission across all age groups, particularly young children.
“Putting children’s needs first “In the fight against the MPOX outbreak, it is not only necessary, it is urgent. Their increased vulnerability demands that we devote all our attention and resources to ensuring their protection and well-being in this critical phase of the response,” said Etleva Kadilli, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa.
Burundi has reported the highest number of infections across the region with 170 confirmed cases in 26 of the country’s 49 districts. Of these, 45.3% are women. Children and adolescents under 20 years of age make up almost 60% of the detected cases.and those under five years old represent 21%.
Multiple emergencies
In addition to the immediate concerns posed by the virus, Kenya, Burundi and Uganda have had to deal with multiple emergencies, such as droughts and floods.
The risks for children in Burundi are greater due to the simultaneous appearance of measles outbreaks due to low routine childhood immunization and high rates of malnutrition. Although the response is underway, the country continues to face numerous challenges, including shortages of diagnostic test kits and medicines, low community awareness, high operational costs and risks of disruption to the continuity of essential health services.
“The new strain of mpox is a serious threat to vulnerable children and families. Apart from the immediate response to save lives, risk communication efforts and cross-border collaboration“Investments in overall strengthening of health systems, continuity of essential services and specific focus on programs that support the overall well-being of children should be prioritized,” Kadilli said.
Stigma, discrimination and learning disruption, some of the side effects
Stigma, discrimination and disruptions to schooling and learning are part of the after-effect of mpox outbreaks in children and adolescents.
For women and girls, the The risk of gender-based violence, including sexual abuse and exploitation, remains highas their care burden includes caring for sick family members and supporting basic survival needs for their children, as seen in previous public health emergencies.
UNICEF urged that plans to support survivors, combat stigma and the continuity of basic social services, especially learning and the reintegration of children into school and the community, be put at the top of public agendas, according to Lessons learned during responses to HIV, COVID-19 and Ebola emergencies.
Support for communities and governments
The UN agency works together with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centers for Disease Control in responding to the mpox outbreak, as well as with local governments.
UNICEF supports communities to enhance risk communication and population engagement through local media and awareness-raising interventions. This includes: Prioritize proper personal care and hygiene as an effective measure of infection prevention and control.
In addition, UNICEF has launched an urgent appeal for US$16.5 million to scale up response and preparedness across the region. Funding needs will be reviewed regularly as the situation evolves rapidly.
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