Second-hand clothes trade blamed for Mbare bedbug outbreak

City authorities have blamed the sale and storage of second-hand clothes for the resurgence of bedbugs in Mbare, as health officials move to contain what they describe as a serious outbreak.

Residents in Matapi, Matererini and Mbare Flats in Harare say they are enduring sleepless nights due to the infestation, with families reporting itchy bites, discomfort and growing frustration as the pests spread rapidly from one block to another.

In an interview with H-Metro yesterday, Dr Prosper Chonzi, Director of Health at the Harare City Council, confirmed that investigations are underway.

"We have noted with concern the resurgence of bedbugs in Mbare," said Dr Chonzi.

"Our investigations point to the storage and trading of imported second-hand clothes in some of the affected flats as one of the major drivers of this outbreak."

Dr Chonzi said health officials have collected specimens for laboratory analysis to determine the most effective method of control.

"We have harvested specimens for sensitivity testing to determine whether they are the same strain previously recorded and to guide us on the most effective chemicals to use," he said.

While awaiting laboratory results, the local authority has already begun fumigation in the worst-affected blocks.

"Spraying operations are currently underway. However, chemical intervention alone will not solve the problem," Dr Chonzi said.

He stressed that preventing the spread of the infestation beyond Mbare will require a co-ordinated response.

"This requires a multi-sectoral approach involving residents, traders, health authorities and other Government departments.

"If second-hand clothes continue to be stored in residential flats under congested conditions, our efforts will be undermined," he said.

Officials also cited cluttered living spaces as contributing to the rapid breeding and spread of the pests.