By Judith Matanire
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has reassured the public that Zimbabwe’s current increase in influenza cases is consistent with the country’s normal seasonal pattern, despite reports of severe cases and five deaths at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo.
In a statement on Monday, the Ministry said the country was experiencing its annual increase in influenza cases, which typically occurs during the winter months of June and July.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care is closely monitoring the situation through the national disease surveillance system and health facilities,” the Ministry said.
“There is currently no cause for alarm, as the increase is consistent with normal seasonal patterns.”
The reassurance comes after Mpilo Central Hospital reported treating more than 1 000 patients for flu-like illnesses since May, with five deaths recorded at the institution.
Mpilo Chief Executive Officer Professor Solwayo Ngwenya previously said the illness had been presenting with severe symptoms, particularly among children, including respiratory complications requiring hospitalisation.
According to figures released by the hospital, 85 children were treated for respiratory conditions in May, rising to 257 in June and 528 in July. Among adults, cases increased from 38 in May to 41 in June and 50 in July.
Prof Ngwenya said five patients had died after presenting with the flu-like illness, while some patients developed community-acquired pneumonia.
The Ministry, however, has urged the public to remain calm while taking basic precautions to reduce transmission.
It identified young children, older people, pregnant women and people living with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma and HIV, as well as those with weakened immunity, as being at higher risk of severe influenza.
These groups have been advised to seek medical attention early if they develop flu-like symptoms.
The Ministry recommended regular handwashing with soap and clean water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitiser, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, keeping homes and workplaces well ventilated and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell.
People experiencing flu symptoms have also been encouraged to stay at home where possible until they recover. Those who need to go into public spaces or visit healthcare facilities while symptomatic have been advised to wear face masks to protect others.
For people with flu, the Ministry said most recover within a few days and advised them to 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 public has been urged to seek urgent medical attention in cases of difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, severe weakness or confusion, convulsions, signs of dehydration or symptoms that worsen after initially improving.
Parents have been advised to seek prompt medical care for young children experiencing difficulty breathing, refusing to feed or displaying unusual drowsiness.
The Ministry’s latest update follows concerns raised by health experts over the severity of some cases being reported in communities.
Community Working Group on Health executive director Itai Rusike previously called for stronger surveillance of influenza and other respiratory viruses, saying vulnerable groups could develop complications.
The Ministry said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide further updates when necessary, while encouraging Zimbabweans to take preventive measures and seek timely medical care when required.
