Imagine a country grappling with a rapidly spreading mpox outbreak, where thousands are affected and fear grips communities. This is the reality Burundi has faced since late July 2024, with nearly 5,000 cases reported by mid-October 2025. But here's where it gets inspiring: Burundi's response has been nothing short of remarkable, with a nearly 100% recovery rate and a coordinated effort that's turning the tide against this outbreak.
The crisis has hit young adults aged 20 to 30 the hardest, followed closely by children under five, across 46 of the country's 49 health districts. Bujumbura city, particularly the neighborhoods of Kamenge and Kinama, has been at the epicenter, prompting intensified response efforts. But this is the part most people miss: beyond the numbers, it's the human stories and systemic improvements that truly highlight the success of Burundi's strategy.
To combat the outbreak, the Government of Burundi, alongside the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, has implemented a multisectoral approach. A key focus has been the establishment and renovation of dedicated care facilities. WHO has played a pivotal role, supporting the development of treatment guidelines and enhancing clinicians' ability to manage mpox cases effectively.
As of now, only one fatality has been recorded, a testament to the effectiveness of these measures. Three facilities—Muyinga Hospital, Kamenge District Hospital, and Kamenge Military Hospital—have received WHO support. These centers offer free, comprehensive care, including medical treatment, nutrition, psychological support, and prevention services. By October 18, 2025, they had treated nearly 4,420 patients—over 98% of all reported cases.
These facilities are more than just treatment centers; they are safe havens providing tailored care. Take Rachel*, a 31-year-old woman admitted to the Kamenge center in Ntahangwa commune, Bujumbura. 'I didn’t know what I had, but when I arrived here, I knew I was in the right place,' she recalls. 'The care was prompt, the explanations clear, and I felt safe. It was here I was diagnosed with mpox and truly helped to recover.'
But here's where it gets controversial: while the medical response has been commendable, the success also hinges on systemic changes that address trust in the health system. Patients like Rachel receive individualized follow-up and a supportive environment, reducing reliance on family members for essentials like food and hygiene supplies. This has significantly lowered household transmission risks. Additionally, segregating spaces by age and gender has improved organization and allowed for more targeted care.
These improvements have transformed patient experiences and strengthened the overall response. Nurse Françoise Kiziba, stationed at Kamenge, notes the daily progress. 'This center has changed how we work. Patients are better supported, and we’ve learned to listen more. We don’t just administer care—we help them through this difficult time,' she explains passionately. The training staff have received has deepened their understanding of mpox, fostering more empathetic and effective care.
The impact extends beyond individual treatment. Enhanced staff skills, quality equipment, and organized services have improved team coordination and case management. Dr. Armel Bitaneza, Chief Medical Officer of Bujumbura Mairie Nord District, highlights the transformation. 'Before these centers, patients were treated in cramped spaces, complicating case management. Now, with WHO’s support, we have renovated infrastructure, 55 available beds, dedicated staff, and efficient organization. This has structured interventions and reduced transmission risks,' he explains.
WHO’s support hasn’t stopped at infrastructure. They’ve strengthened local capacities, established rapid response teams, trained health professionals, supervised diagnostic sites, distributed treatment tools, disinfected affected homes, and supported awareness campaigns through media and schools. Over time, this mobilization has built a more resilient health system, better prepared for future emergencies.
Dr. Issa Diallo, Team Lead for Emergency Preparedness and Response at WHO Burundi, sums up the vision: 'We aimed to ensure comprehensive care, reduce mpox-related complications, limit community transmission, and strengthen local capacities. These centers are now examples of what a well-structured response can achieve.'
But here’s the thought-provoking question: Can this model be replicated in other health crises, and what lessons can we learn from Burundi’s success? The integrated, people-centered approach—combining medical expertise, community engagement, and institutional support—has restored hope to countless families. Rachel’s story is a testament to this: 'Mpox can be frightening, but with proper care, you recover. I’m grateful for the treatment I received.'
As Burundi continues to lead by example, the global health community watches closely, inspired by its resilience and innovation. What do you think? Can Burundi’s model be a blueprint for tackling future outbreaks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
