City of Harare Reports 501 Cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak

The City of Harare has issued a warning regarding an outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), with over 500 cases reported, primarily affecting children under 10 years old.

In a notice released on Thursday, city officials stated that the viral infection has mainly been found in the suburbs of Mabvuku, Mbare, Budiriro, and Waterfalls.

They cautioned that the disease is highly contagious, spreading through touch with blisters or droplets from coughs and sneezes, as reported by New Zimbabwe.

Currently, there have been 501 reported cases, but no deaths related to the outbreak. Those experiencing symptoms are encouraged to visit the nearest clinic or hospital.

While HFMD usually clears up on its own, the City of Harare urged parents to take symptoms seriously and seek medical help.

“The disease is self-limiting, and the focus should be on treating the symptoms. We advise the public to avoid direct contact with anyone showing signs of the illness,” the notice stated.

The city also emphasized the importance of prompt medical attention for any child exhibiting symptoms of the disease.

“We urge residents to take children with symptoms to the clinic without delay,” officials said.