Loraine Phiri
Zimbabwe is experiencing its annual seasonal increase in influenza cases, with the Ministry of Health and Child Care saying there is currently “no cause for alarm” as the rise follows the country’s normal winter pattern.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry said the increase in flu cases was typically seen during the winter months of June and July and that authorities were closely monitoring the situation.
“Zimbabwe is experiencing its annual seasonal increase in influenza (flu) cases, typically seen during the winter months of June and July,” the Ministry said.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care is closely monitoring the situation through the national disease surveillance system and health facilities.”
The Ministry sought to reassure the public that the increase did not indicate an unusual outbreak.
“There is currently no cause for alarm, as the increase is consistent with normal seasonal patterns,” it said.
However, the Ministry urged people considered to be at higher risk of severe influenza to take extra care and seek medical attention early if they develop flu-like symptoms.
Those at increased risk include young children and older people, pregnant women and people living with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma and HIV, as well as those with weakened immunity.
“These groups should seek medical attention early if they develop flu like symptoms,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry also urged members of the public to take simple measures to reduce the spread of the virus, including regularly washing their hands with soap and clean water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
It advised people to “cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing” and to keep homes and workplaces well ventilated.
The public was further encouraged to “avoid close contact with people who are unwell” and, where possible, remain at home while experiencing flu symptoms until they recover.
“For those who need to be in public or visit a healthcare facility while symptomatic, wear a face mask to protect others,” the Ministry said.
According to the Ministry, most people with influenza recover within a few days. It advised patients to rest, drink plenty of fluids, maintain good nutrition and use paracetamol for fever or body aches as directed.
The Ministry also warned against using antibiotics to treat influenza without medical advice.
“Antibiotics do not treat influenza, as it is caused by a virus,” it said. “They should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional.”
The Ministry urged the public to seek urgent medical attention if they develop difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, severe weakness or confusion, convulsions, signs of dehydration or symptoms that worsen after initially improving.
For young children, it advised parents and caregivers to seek prompt medical attention if they experience difficulty breathing, refuse to feed or become unusually drowsy.
The Ministry said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide updates when necessary.
“The public is encouraged to remain calm, take simple preventive measures, protect those at higher risk and seek timely medical care when needed,” the Ministry said.
