By Sharon Tawuya
Harare, (New Ziana)- Zimbabwe has recorded 12 000 cases of influenza (Flu) per week this month as the country goes through the seasonal peak period, with the government dismissing fears linking the current wave of respiratory illnesses to COVID-19.
The permanent secretary for Health and Child Care Dr Aspect Maunganidze told a press conference that the influenza activity typically peaks in June and July although this year the cold spell and prolonged.
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs, and common symptoms include sudden high fever or feeling feveris, dry cough and sore throat, muscle or body aches, headaches and severe fatigue, runny or stuffy nose.
It spreads easily through air droplets and most people who contract itb recover in a week, but it can cause severe illness in high-risk groups.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care wishes to inform the public that Zimbabwe is experiencing a seasonal increase in influenza ‘flu’ activity, consistent with the pattern normally observed during the country’s winter months. Influenza activity typically peaks during June and July. This year however the peak occurred in August, coinciding with the prolonged cold spell currently being experienced across the country. While this represents a later than usual seasonal peak, there is no cause for panic or alarm,” said Dr Maunganidze.
He said recent surveillance data show reported influenza cases have risen to nearly 12 000 per week, compared to 20 000 per week in mid-july last year, meaning current figures remain within the expected seasonal pattern, albeit later.
“The ministry continues to closely monitor the situation through the national disease surveillance and laboratory systems. Since January 2026, four deaths have been reported in relation to influenza. The ministry however notes that influenza may aggravate underlying conditions such as asthma, tuberculosis, heart disease and other chronic conditions , and continues to monitor severe cases and deaths,” he said.
Dr Maunganidze said tests by the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory have identified predominantly Influenza A and Influenza B viruses.
“No coronavirus has been isolated from the influenza samples tested,” he said, adding that 302 targeted tests have been conducted at the national laboratory, with no COVID-19 detected.
“While someone might die from tuberculosis, if they have flu at the same time, it does not mean they have directly died from influenza,” he said.
He urged greater caution for children under five years, particularly infants; people aged 65 and above; pregnant women; people living with chronic conditions; and people with weakened immune systems.
“Members of the public are encouraged to wash hands regularly, cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wear a face mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms and in crowded or poorly ventilated places,” he said.
Dr Maungasnidze also warned the public to avoid close contact with people who are unwell, stay home when experiencing flu-like symptoms, ensure good ventilation, and maintain adequate nutrition, hydration and rest.
“Most people with mild influenza can recover safely at home with adequate rest, plenty of fluids and paracetamol. Antibiotics do not treat influenza, as it is caused by a virus, and should only be taken when prescribed by a healthcare professional,” he said.
He said prompt medical attention should be sought for difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent or very high fever, severe weakness, confusion, inability to drink, dehydration, convulsions, or worsening symptoms.
Parents and guardians should seek urgent care for young children with difficulty breathing, who refuse feeds, or become unusually sleepy or show other signs of severe illness, he explained, reassuring the public that surveillance, laboratory and clinical systems are in place to monitor and respond to the situation.
Dr Maunganidze urged the public to remain calm, take the recommended preventive measures, protect those who are most vulnerable and seek medical attention promptly when necessary.
“The Ministry will continue to monitor developments and provide further information should there be any significant change,” he said.
New Ziana
