Children under 15 account for half of the suspected mpox cases in Guinea-Bissau, UNICEF reported. By 17 August, authorities had recorded 46 suspected cases, including 23 children. Sixteen of those children were aged four or younger. Seven cases had been confirmed, all in adults, and no deaths had been reported. Testing gaps may delay confirmation of new cases.
UNICEF said weak surveillance and limited contact tracing may hide the outbreak's true scale. The agency is helping health authorities and WHO strengthen monitoring, infection prevention and water services. It is also sharing reliable information with families and communities. Early reporting can help health workers identify contacts and reduce further transmission. UNICEF called for child-focused action because young children may face greater risks during an outbreak.