The emergence of a new Mpox variant represents a disproportionate threat to children and vulnerable populations in Eastern and Southern Africa, with over 200 confirmed cases across five countries, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The countries affected by the outbreak include Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa. The new clade Ib variant has so far been detected in all affected countries except South Africa.
The highest number of cases has been reported in Burundi, with a significant impact on children.
“170 confirmed Mpox cases have been detected across 26 out of the 49 districts in the country, of whom 45.3% are female,” UNICEF announced.
The data shows children and adolescents below 20 years of age account for nearly 60% of cases detected, with children under five accounting for 21% of cases.
Measles outbreaks, low immunization rates, and high levels of malnutrition seek to further exacerbate the region’s situation.
The ongoing concern surrounding the secondary effects of Mpox outbreaks on children and adolescents extends beyond the immediate health impact of the disease. Other secondary effects include stigma, discrimination, and disruptions to schooling and learning, all of which require immediate attention.
The risk of gender-based violence against women and girls, including sexual abuse and exploitation, remains high. As in previous public health emergencies, women and girls bear a significant burden of care, as they are commonly perceived as the primary caregiver, including for sick family members and supporting the basic needs of their families’ survival.
“Aside from immediate lifesaving response, risk communication efforts, and cross-border collaboration, investments in overall health system strengthening, continuity of essential services, and targeted focus on programs that support overall child well-being must be prioritized,” UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva Kadilli, said in a comment about the situation.
Some African countries, including Kenya, Burundi, and Uganda, not only face the challenge of the public health emergency but also contend with other difficulties, such as drought and floods, resulting in the population’s exposure to greater risks.
“In the fight against the Mpox outbreak, prioritizing the needs of children is not just necessary—it’s urgent. Their heightened vulnerability requires that we dedicate our full attention and resources to ensure their protection and well-being in this critical response phase,” Kadilli added.
The African Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recently reported that the majority of Mpox outbreak activity remains concentrated in Central Africa, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) accounting for over 15,000 cases since the beginning of the year.
UNICEF, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC, strives to enhance local risk communication and infection control. The UN organization has launched an appeal for $16.5 million to expand the regional response and preparation measures.