Online ReporterTalent Gore
HARARE is battling an outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), with more than 1 500 cases now recorded across the capital, the majority involving young children.
Alarmingly, 90 percent of the infections are among children under five.
In a statement, the City of Harare said most cases are concentrated in high-density suburbs, particularly Mabvuku and Tafara, which alone account for well over 50 percent of the cases.
However, the disease has now spread across Harare, with affected areas including Budiriro, Mbare, Glen View, Kuwadzana, Mufakose and Waterfalls, as well as medium-density suburbs such as Braeside.
The municipality has urged residents to exercise caution, warning that hand, foot and mouth disease is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact as well as droplets from coughs or sneezes.
Despite the widespread transmission, health officials reassured residents that HFMD generally has a low fatality rate and only rare complications.
The municipality noted that most cases can be managed at home through symptomatic treatment, including controlling fever and easing itching.
In a few instances, complications may arise due to secondary bacterial infections of the blisters or sores.
City officials said surveillance and response efforts are ongoing as they work to contain the outbreak.
Mathew Masinge