Scholarlink

Background <p>The 2025 Mpox outbreak in Burundi revealed major gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems. To assess preparedness and track improvements, an Intra-Action Review (IAR) was conducted in 44 healthcare facilities using a WHO-adapted IPC Scorecard.</p> Methods <p>Baseline and two-month follow-up assessments measured 16 IPC/WASH components across five high-risk districts using WHO/Africa CDC-aligned tools. A five-day IAR workshop with national and partner stakeholders reviewed findings, identified challenges, and refined response strategies under the WHO/Africa CDC Mpox framework. Combined quantitative and qualitative data-informed real-time adjustments and strengthened preparedness.</p> Results <p>The baseline average IPC/WASH score was 23.75%, rising slightly to 24.31% after two months. Persistent gaps were identified in staff training, hand hygiene, and post-exposure management. Strengths included regular IPC/WASH coordination meetings, adequate PPE supplies, improved resource mobilization, community engagement, and timely distribution of materials. Weaknesses included poor collaboration between animal and human health sectors, the absence of an integrated IPC plan, delays in finalizing the national IPC strategy, high staff turnover, and limited training integration. Lessons learned underscored the value of a One Health approach, pre-established communication plans, continuous mentorship, digital tools such as the IPC Scorecard, and proactive procurement planning.</p> Conclusion <p>Although modest progress was achieved, systemic IPC/WASH challenges persist. Strengthening multisectoral collaboration under a One Health framework, institutionalizing continuous training, and scaling real-time digital monitoring are critical to enhancing Burundi’s outbreak preparedness and resilience.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Enhancing Mpox response in Burundi: strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems through evidence-based strategies

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

    开放获取

  • 发表日期：

    2025年12月11日

查看全文
  • Jean Paul Muambangu Milambo,
  • Valéry Tshilombo Kazadi,
  • Alain Tamba Yombouno,
  • Jean Bosco Girukwishaka,
  • Zita Fomonyuy Ngwang,
  • Guellord Mulondanyi Banyawa

摘要

Background

The 2025 Mpox outbreak in Burundi revealed major gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems. To assess preparedness and track improvements, an Intra-Action Review (IAR) was conducted in 44 healthcare facilities using a WHO-adapted IPC Scorecard.

Methods

Baseline and two-month follow-up assessments measured 16 IPC/WASH components across five high-risk districts using WHO/Africa CDC-aligned tools. A five-day IAR workshop with national and partner stakeholders reviewed findings, identified challenges, and refined response strategies under the WHO/Africa CDC Mpox framework. Combined quantitative and qualitative data-informed real-time adjustments and strengthened preparedness.

Results

The baseline average IPC/WASH score was 23.75%, rising slightly to 24.31% after two months. Persistent gaps were identified in staff training, hand hygiene, and post-exposure management. Strengths included regular IPC/WASH coordination meetings, adequate PPE supplies, improved resource mobilization, community engagement, and timely distribution of materials. Weaknesses included poor collaboration between animal and human health sectors, the absence of an integrated IPC plan, delays in finalizing the national IPC strategy, high staff turnover, and limited training integration. Lessons learned underscored the value of a One Health approach, pre-established communication plans, continuous mentorship, digital tools such as the IPC Scorecard, and proactive procurement planning.

Conclusion

Although modest progress was achieved, systemic IPC/WASH challenges persist. Strengthening multisectoral collaboration under a One Health framework, institutionalizing continuous training, and scaling real-time digital monitoring are critical to enhancing Burundi’s outbreak preparedness and resilience.