Mpox outbreak in Guinea-Bissau sparks alarm: Children account for half of suspected cases, says UNICEF

The seemingly minor outbreak represents a “major public health event” according to UN Children’s Fund UNICEF, as this is the first time mpox cases have been reported in the West African country.

Mpox is an infectious disease belonging to the same virus family as smallpox. Symptoms typically include a distinct rash, alongside fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and fatigue.

The outbreak was declared on 4 July. Seven adult cases have been confirmed so far, according to the Government, as of Tuesday, with no fatalities reported.

Back to school

Symptoms of mpox tend to go away on their own and rarely lead to death, but newborns and children are more at risk of developing severe cases of the disease.

In the last major international outbreak of mpox in 2022, many of the fatal cases were of children or people with underlying health conditions.

The upcoming reopening of schools in September heightens concerns, as it is expected to increase opportunities for transmission among this vulnerable group.

Close contact

Though the outbreak of 2022 primarily affected people with new and/or multiple sexual partners – including men who have sex with men – there are many ways to get infected.

The disease primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact with lesions, so anyone who comes into close physical contact with a contagious person is at risk.

Contact with objects used by the infected person – such as clothing and eating utensils – also represents an important source of infection.

‘Critical gaps’ in surveillance

UNICEF warns that “critical gaps” in surveillance strategies – especially in identifying contacts, testing samples and tracing how the virus spread – may complicate efforts to address the outbreak.

The agency is working with local authorities and partners to address them and organise information campaigns for children and families. These initiatives require more than $150,000 in flexible emergency funding.

“With early detection, care, and prevention, mpox can be managed and its spread reduced,” stressed the UNICEF Deputy Representative Sandra Martins.

“We urge families to seek care immediately if a child or family member develops a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes or other symptoms, and to follow guidance on handwashing, avoiding close contact with suspected cases, and reducing stigma.”