A Burundian doctor has condemned the government’s handling of the ongoing mpox epidemic, accusing authorities of remaining silent and failing to provide vital information. The doctor, speaking anonymously, highlighted that mpox has spread across nearly every district in the country.
Burundi was the second hardest-hit African country by the outbreak, after the Democratic Republic of Congo, in September. The United Nations had issued warnings, especially about the significant impact on children.
“The management of the current mpox epidemic in Burundi by the authorities is catastrophic, irresponsible, and criminal,” the doctor said, calling for greater transparency and action.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a virus transmitted by infected animals but can also spread through human-to-human contact. While the disease can be deadly, it is treatable.
According to the doctor, the government has attempted to suppress data, preventing the health ministry from publishing case figures. Official reports obtained by AFP show 5,339 suspected cases between July 25 and December 12, with 50 percent of them confirmed positive. Cases have been reported in 46 of the country’s 49 health districts.
The doctor warned that the epidemic continues to spread, with 10 new cases discovered daily. However, these figures are not being recorded or made public.
The government has also reportedly refused to accept mpox vaccines offered by international agencies, further drawing criticism. Media outlets have also been denied access to daily reports, with one local radio manager confirming the ministry’s refusal to release information.
Neither the Ministry of Public Health nor the World Health Organization’s Burundi office responded to requests for comment.
