Zimbabwe reports seasonal rise in influenza cases

Zimbabwe is experiencing a seasonal rise in influenza cases, with reported numbers reaching nearly 12,000 per week during the current peak. The Ministry of Health and Child Care stated that the increase is consistent with annual seasonal patterns typically seen during the winter months, though this year's peak has shifted to August due to a prolonged cold spell.

Laboratory testing conducted by the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory has identified Influenza A and Influenza B as the predominant circulating viruses. Health officials clarified that no coronavirus strains have been isolated from the tested samples, addressing public concerns regarding a potential new COVID-19 variant.

While the ministry urged the public not to panic, it noted that four deaths related to influenza have been reported since January. In Bulawayo, reports indicate that five people died after presenting with flu-like symptoms at Mpilo Central Hospital, and over 1,000 patients have been treated for the illness since May.

High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or HIV. The ministry advised against the use of antibiotics to treat influenza, as the illness is viral, and urged those experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent high fever to seek medical attention.