The Ministry of Health and Child Care has urged Zimbabweans to remain calm and take precautions as the country experiences its annual seasonal increase in influenza cases, amid growing public concern over a flu-like illness reported to be circulating in Bulawayo and other parts of the country.
The ministry said the increase in influenza cases was consistent with normal seasonal patterns typically recorded during Zimbabwe’s winter months of June and July.
“There is currently no cause for alarm, as the increase is consistent with normal seasonal patterns,” the ministry said in a statement.
The alert comes amid widespread concern on social media over the severity of the illness, with some people describing symptoms as unusually painful and comparing them to Covid-19.
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At Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, five people have reportedly died after presenting with flu-like symptoms, while more than 1 000 patients have been treated for the illness since May, according to reports.
However, doctors have reportedly ruled out fears that the illness is linked to a new strain of Covid-19.
Social media posts have fuelled concern, with persons describing the illness as “brutal” after developing chills, severe body aches, a sore throat, earaches, sinus and chest congestion and loss of appetite.
Another commented saying: “This flu is like Covid-19.”
The Ministry of Health and Child Care said it was closely monitoring the situation through the national disease surveillance system and health facilities.
The ministry said people at higher risk of developing severe influenza include young children, older people and pregnant women, as well as those living with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma and HIV or those with weakened immunity.
“These groups should seek medical attention early if they develop flu-like symptoms,” the ministry said.
The ministry urged the public to take measures to reduce transmission, such as the regular washing of hands with soap and clean water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
People were also urged to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, keep homes and workplaces well ventilated and avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
Those experiencing flu symptoms were advised to remain at home where possible until they recover.
“If you have flu symptoms, stay at home where possible until you recover. If you 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 recover from influenza within a few days and should rest, drink plenty of fluids, maintain good nutrition and use paracetamol for fever or body aches as directed.
It also warned against the unnecessary use of antibiotics.
“Antibiotics do not treat influenza, as it is caused by a virus. They should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional,” the ministry said.
The ministry urged people to seek 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.
Parents and caregivers were advised to seek prompt medical attention for young children experiencing difficulty breathing, refusing to feed or showing unusual drowsiness.
The ministry said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide further updates where 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.
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