On Jan. 23, 2024, Dr. Lydwine Baradahana, Burundi’s Minister of Public Health, met with a delegation from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The delegation, led by Dr. Ngashi Ngingo, the Technical Director for programs and continental coordinator of Mpox response efforts, visited Burundi to assist with the country’s intra-action review of its Mpox response plan.
Dr. Ngingo praised Burundi’s efforts, saying, “We acknowledge and commend the strategies Burundi has implemented for the prevention and management of Mpox cases. These measures are crucial in containing the virus.”
The Africa CDC delegation emphasized the organization’s commitment to intensifying efforts in the five districts most affected by Mpox. “We are dedicated to bolstering the response in these areas to reduce the spread and impact of the disease,” Dr. Ngingo added.
In addition to Mpox, discussions also centered on the possibility of future outbreaks of the Marburg virus. The Africa CDC offered to provide support in strengthening surveillance, prevention, and response mechanisms for potential Marburg cases. “It is vital that we remain vigilant and prepared for any emerging threats like Marburg,” Dr. Ngingo said.
The meeting underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Burundi and the Africa CDC in combating infectious diseases across the continent.
