Mpox Outbreak in Guinea-Bissau: Children Account for Half of Cases

The West African nation of Guinea-Bissau has reported a significant number of suspected mpox cases, with children under the age of 15 comprising half of the total. As of the latest updates, the country has documented 46 suspected cases amidst an outbreak declared on 4 July. Initial reports indicate that seven cases have been confirmed, all affecting adults, with six located in the Bissau Autonomous Sector and one in the adjacent Biombo Region. Of the 46 suspected cases, a staggering 23 involve children, including 16 aged four years or younger.

According to UNICEF, this marks the first occurrence of mpox in Guinea-Bissau, raising alarm over the potential health implications. Sandra Martins, UNICEF's Deputy Representative in the country, stated that the fragile health surveillance framework raises concerns that the virus could be spreading without detection. She stressed, “While the country’s surveillance system remains extremely fragile, we face the risk that cases are going undetected, particularly among children who are the most vulnerable to severe complications.”

As per health professionals, the Clade variants associated with this outbreak are consistent with the mpox viruses observed in nearby regions, adding to the risk of cross-border transmission. So far, there have been no fatalities reported from this outbreak, but the health system's current state creates an urgent need for improved surveillance and healthcare delivery.

Dr Magda Robalo, a recognised health expert and former health minister who guided the country through its Covid-19 response, highlighted the need for increased surveillance in the nation's health system. She stated that ongoing new cases, albeit small in number, indicate that transmission remains active. The departure from formal health infrastructure challenges has compounded the issue further.

Community outreach efforts have begun, with health workers deploying door-to-door campaigns to raise public awareness about the disease. These initiatives involve the distribution of translated materials and the use of megaphones, supported by the health ministry and international organisations.

The outbreak occurs at a challenging time for Guinea-Bissau, which is also navigating infrastructure setbacks and the effects of a military coup that resulted in the suspension of presidential elections last November. Some public health facilities lack the necessary equipment to respond to epidemics, though healthcare workers have retained knowledge from previous crises.

With the reopening of primary schools anticipated in September, the urgency for effective public health communication is significant. In addressing the issue, UNICEF has encouraged families to seek medical advice if children develop symptoms consistent with the disease, such as rashes, fever, or swollen lymph nodes.

The nature of mpox enhances the importance of vigilance. This zoonotic disease spreads through close contact and infected bodily fluids. Guidelines from health authorities underscore the need for preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with potentially infected animals and maintaining stringent hygiene practices. Vaccination is also advised where available to mitigate the disease's spread.

As the situation develops, the stakes remain high, particularly for the vulnerable younger population in Guinea-Bissau.