Online Reporter
Zimpapers Correspondent
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has moved to quell growing public anxiety over a perceived rise in respiratory infections, asserting that current influenza rates remain well within manageable levels and significantly below historical seasonal averages.
This clarification comes amid mounting public concern that the current “flu bug” circulating through communities might signal a resurgent Covid-19 outbreak.
Government declared that Covid-19 was no longer a national health threat and should be treated like any other disease, following the World Health Organisation’s announcement that the virus no longer constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Ministry of Health spokesperson Mr Donald Mujiri confirmed yesterday that surveillance data shows approximately 3,000 cases have been recorded to date — a figure he described as lower than typical for this period.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care would like to assure the public that there is no cause for alarm about influenza at the moment,” Mr Mujiri said. “About 3,000 cases have been recorded, which is lower than what is normally expected at this time of the year.”
Despite the low figures, Mr Mujiri warned that the nation is approaching the traditional flu peak.
“Flu cases usually increase between March and April, and current levels remain manageable. The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages everyone to practice good hygiene, seek medical care early if unwell, and protect themselves and others.”
The Ministry of Health and Child Care phased out the issuing of daily Situation Reports for Covid-19 and the last one was issued in August 2023.
According to the Ministry’s cumulative surveillance report, as of November 30, 2025, the country had recorded 316,064 influenza cases and seven deaths.
According to medical professionals, common colds (flu) may mimic Covid-19, with symptoms including high fever, sore throat, fatigue, joint pain, chills, loss of appetite and general weakness.
However, to health experts, the most effective response to a flu diagnosis is to immediately withdraw from public life.
Experts emphasise that “becoming a ghost” is a civic duty; by avoiding the workplace and shared communal spaces, infected individuals prevent the virus from hitching a ride on office equipment or spreading through spreadsheets and social interactions.
Medical practitioners also advise patients to “drink like a fish,” noting that the body’s elevated temperature and immune response lead to rapid fluid loss.
