Global and regional influenza activity trends

Zimbabwe is experiencing a seasonal rise in influenza cases, with weekly reports reaching nearly 12,000. The Ministry of Health and Child Care noted that the peak has shifted to August due to a prolonged cold spell. Laboratory testing has identified Influenza A and Influenza B as the predominant circulating viruses, while officials clarified that no coronavirus strains have been isolated.

Four deaths related to influenza have been reported in Zimbabwe since January. In Bulawayo, five deaths occurred at Mpilo Central Hospital following flu-like symptoms, and over 1,000 patients have been treated since May.

On a global scale, the World Health Organization reported that influenza positivity remained below 10 percent during week 31 of 2026. However, activity has increased in specific regions, with positivity rates exceeding 10 percent in parts of South America, East and Southern Africa, and Oceania. In some tropical areas of South America and East Africa, positivity rates surpassed 30 percent. SARS-CoV-2 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus activity remained generally low globally.