The Harare City Health Department has confirmed it is battling a significant and worrying surge in cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), with over five hundred children now confirmed to have contracted the illness. The latest figures, current as of the 18th of November, paint a startling picture of the outbreak’s spread, leaving parents and health officials on high alert. Suburbs across the city are reporting infections, with Waterfalls emerging as the current epicentre with 60 cases, closely followed by Budiriro and the neighbouring areas of Mabvuku and Tafara.
In response to the escalating situation, the city’s health authorities have sprung into action. Dr Prosper Chonzi, the Director of Health for the City of Harare, confirmed that emergency measures are now in place.
“District Rapid Response teams have been activated to prevent and control the epidemic’s spread,” he stated.
While the speed of transmission is a primary concern, Dr Chonzi sought to reassure the public about the disease’s typical severity, noting,
“We anticipate more cases, as this disease is highly transmissible; however, we do not expect serious negative outcomes for the affected children.”
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Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Outbreak Hits Harare Children
With no specific antiviral medication or vaccine available for HFMD, the medical strategy is firmly focused on managing the uncomfortable and often painful symptoms to prevent further complications. The disease presents as a blistering rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks, accompanied by painful ulcers inside the mouth, which can make drinking and eating a difficult ordeal for a young child. The city’s health teams are therefore concentrating their efforts on community education and direct patient care.
Dr Chonzi explained the approach, stating, “Our focus is on symptomatic treatment—addressing the symptoms directly.” The primary goals are to ensure infected children remain hydrated and to manage their pain, thereby staving off secondary issues like severe dehydration. “The virus spreads easily through direct contact and respiratory droplets, making good hygiene practices—like frequent hand washing—essential,” Dr Chonzi added, highlighting the critical role of prevention in the absence of a cure.
A Parent’s Guide to Home Care and Vigilance
For parents and guardians nursing an affected child at home, the advice is clear. The illness usually runs its course within seven to ten days, and home care involves ensuring the child gets plenty of fluids and age-appropriate pain relief. A key directive from health officials is to keep contagious children isolated. Children should remain at home until all their blisters have fully crusted over to prevent passing the virus to others.
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It is also vital that the blisters are left to dry out naturally. Squeezing or piercing them can worsen the rash and increase the risk of a secondary bacterial infection. While HFMD is most common in preschoolers, Dr Chonzi reminded the public that “anyone can contract the virus,” and that it is possible to be infected more than once. Parents are urged to seek immediate medical attention at their nearest clinic if their child shows signs of severe dehydration, such as infrequent urination, or if their symptoms appear to be worsening significantly.
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The post Ministry Of Health Issues Warning As Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Outbreak Hits Harare Children appeared first on iHarare News.
