News / National
Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease hits Harare
40 mins ago |
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The Harare City Health Department has reported a significant increase in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases among children, with 501 confirmed infections recorded as of 18 November 2025. The outbreak has raised concerns among parents and health officials, prompting urgent public health measures.
The suburbs most affected include Waterfalls with 60 cases, Budiriro 51, Mabvuku 47, Tafara 48, Mufakose 43, Highfield 28, and Mbare 27. In response, the city has activated District Rapid Response teams to curb the spread and manage symptomatic cases effectively.
Dr Prosper Chonzi, Director of Health for the City of Harare, stated that while more cases are expected due to the highly contagious nature of HFMD, severe complications are not anticipated. The city is also conducting community awareness campaigns to educate caregivers on proper management and preventive measures.
HFMD is a viral infection that primarily affects young children. Its hallmark symptoms include fever, painful blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks, and ulcers in the mouth, which can make eating and drinking difficult. The illness typically lasts 7 to 10 days, and there is currently no vaccine or specific cure, with treatment focusing on alleviating symptoms.
Parents and guardians are advised to care for affected children at home by keeping them hydrated, administering regular pain relief, and ensuring good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing. Children should remain at home until all blisters have crusted over to prevent further transmission.
Dr Chonzi cautioned against squeezing or piercing blisters, as this can worsen the rash. Residents are urged to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if a child shows signs of severe dehydration, including infrequent urination.
While HFMD primarily targets preschoolers, it can affect individuals of any age, and reinfections are possible, though subsequent cases are usually milder. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are working to minimize the spread of the disease in the community.
The suburbs most affected include Waterfalls with 60 cases, Budiriro 51, Mabvuku 47, Tafara 48, Mufakose 43, Highfield 28, and Mbare 27. In response, the city has activated District Rapid Response teams to curb the spread and manage symptomatic cases effectively.
Dr Prosper Chonzi, Director of Health for the City of Harare, stated that while more cases are expected due to the highly contagious nature of HFMD, severe complications are not anticipated. The city is also conducting community awareness campaigns to educate caregivers on proper management and preventive measures.
HFMD is a viral infection that primarily affects young children. Its hallmark symptoms include fever, painful blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks, and ulcers in the mouth, which can make eating and drinking difficult. The illness typically lasts 7 to 10 days, and there is currently no vaccine or specific cure, with treatment focusing on alleviating symptoms.
Parents and guardians are advised to care for affected children at home by keeping them hydrated, administering regular pain relief, and ensuring good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing. Children should remain at home until all blisters have crusted over to prevent further transmission.
Dr Chonzi cautioned against squeezing or piercing blisters, as this can worsen the rash. Residents are urged to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if a child shows signs of severe dehydration, including infrequent urination.
While HFMD primarily targets preschoolers, it can affect individuals of any age, and reinfections are possible, though subsequent cases are usually milder. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are working to minimize the spread of the disease in the community.
Source - HMetro
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