Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
MALARIA and common diarrhoea continue to dominate Zimbabwe’s communicable disease burden, with the latest Weekly Disease Surveillance Report from the Ministry of Health and Child Care showing persistent transmission across several provinces.
According to the report, the country recorded three malaria-related deaths and more than 8 000 diarrhoeal cases during the first week of the month. Malaria, which remains one of Zimbabwe’s most consistent health threats, accounted for 1 074 cases in the reporting period.
The three fatalities were reported in Makoni and Chimanimani districts in Manicaland Province, and Mount Darwin in Mashonaland Central. Children under five contributed 125 malaria cases, underscoring the continued vulnerability of younger populations.
Mashonaland East recorded the highest number of new malaria cases at 407, followed by Mashonaland Central with 283. Cumulatively, the country has registered 154 024 malaria cases and 423 deaths to date.
Common diarrhoea also remains a major concern, with 8 236 cases recorded during the week under review, though no deaths were reported. Of these, 3 833 cases were among children under five, a trend that continues to strain primary health services. Zimbabwe’s cumulative diarrhoea cases now stand at 293 271, with 157 deaths since January.
The surveillance report also noted an increase in suspected influenza, with 5 118 cases and no associated deaths. Manicaland recorded the highest numbers at 1 547 cases, followed by Mashonaland West with 1 449. Influenza cases so far total 297 636, with seven deaths.
Dog bites remain an ongoing public health issue, with 655 cases reported nationwide this week. The cases included 138 bites from vaccinated dogs, 112 from unvaccinated dogs, while 404 involved dogs with unknown vaccination status. The highest figures were reported in Midlands (106) and Mashonaland West (105). To date, Zimbabwe has recorded 23 608 dog bite cases and three deaths.
Meanwhile, 390 dysentery cases were reported, with no fatalities. Mashonaland West (84) and Manicaland (80) topped the provincial breakdown. Cumulative dysentery cases stand at 14 537, with five deaths recorded this year.
The Ministry also confirmed 17 anthrax cases, all non-fatal, concentrated in Gokwe North (12), Gokwe South (3) and Zaka (2).
The Ministry of Health and Child Care continues to emphasise preventive measures, which include timely medical attention, vaccination of pets, and adherence to hygiene practices as the country battles multiple communicable disease threats.
