Johnson Progress

The City of Harare is currently confronting a significant and growing outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), with health authorities confirming that nearly 600 cases have been recorded across the capital, predominantly affecting young children.

 

According to the City of Harare Epidemiologist, Dr Michael Vere, the situation has escalated rapidly.

 

He provided an official update, stating that as of November 20, the city had documented 575 cases.

 

Dr Vere emphasized the disproportionate impact on the city’s youngest residents, revealing that a vast majority of those infected are very young children.

 

He specifically clarified the most vulnerable age group, stating, “90 percent of the infections are among children under five.”

 

The outbreak, while now citywide, appears to have specific hotspots.

 

The epidemiologist detailed the geographical spread of the disease, indicating that initial concentrations have broadened.

 

He explained, “Most cases are concentrated in high-density suburbs, particularly Mabvuku and Tafara, which alone account for well over 100 cases.”

 

However, the virus has not been contained to these areas.

 

Dr Vere confirmed that affected areas now include the suburbs of Budiriro, Mbare, Glen View, Kuwadzana, Mufakose, and Waterfalls, and have also moved into medium-density suburbs such as Braeside.

 

For parents and caregivers, the visible symptoms of the disease are causing considerable concern.

 

Describing the clinical presentation in affected children, Dr Vere noted that the illness is often uncomfortable and distressing for the young patients.

 

He elaborated on the symptoms, stating, “Affected children are presenting with painful blisters on the hands, feet, around the lips and inside the mouth, often making it difficult for them to eat or drink.”

 

Despite the alarming number of cases and the discomfort caused, health officials are seeking to reassure the public about the overall severity of the disease.

 

Dr Vere provided context on the health risks associated with HFMD, aiming to prevent panic.

 

He offered a measured reassurance to residents, affirming, “HFMD generally has a low fatality rate and only rare complications.”

 

He further explained that the majority of cases do not require advanced medical intervention, noting, “Most cases can be managed at home through symptomatic treatment, including controlling fever and easing itching.”

 

He did, however, caution that vigilance is still necessary, as complications can occasionally arise from secondary bacterial infections of the skin lesions.

 

A critical part of the public health response is addressing the virus’s high transmissibility.

 

Dr Vere outlined the primary modes of transmission, which make the disease easily spreadable in community settings, especially crèches and schools.

 

He urgently advised the public on necessary preventative measures, stating, “HFMD spreads easily through droplets and direct contact.”

 

He detailed how the virus is passed on, explaining, “Coughing, sneezing or touching contaminated surfaces can transmit the virus,” and strongly urged the consistent practice of good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and the regular cleaning of surfaces using common household detergents, as the most effective way to curb the outbreak’s continued spread.