As the new academic year commences, schools in Burundi are intensifying efforts to prevent the spread of mpox, particularly among students aged 5 to 19, who account for 33 percent of reported cases, according to UNICEF.
At “Les petits trésors,” a primary school in western Burundi, faculty members are proactively implementing health measures to ensure the safety of both students and staff. The school director emphasizes the importance of physical distancing and hygiene: “When they line up in front of the flag, they have to keep their distance to avoid touching their friends. And they have to wash their hands.”
Recent weeks have seen a concerning rise of over 40 percent in mpox cases across the country, with hundreds of infections reported since July. This surge has prompted schools to take swift action, reflecting a collective commitment to safeguarding the health of students.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi’s neighbor, is also experiencing an increase in mpox cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently highlighted that suspected cases in the DRC comprise a significant share of the nearly 30,000 cases recorded across Africa this year. In August, the WHO declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency in parts of the continent.
Despite the challenges posed by the outbreak, the proactive measures being taken by schools in Burundi, supported by parents and health officials, showcase a strong response to the situation. By prioritizing health education and preventive practices, Burundi is setting a commendable example in its efforts to protect children from the further spread of mpox and ensuring a safe learning environment as they return to school.
