The City of Harare’s Health Department has confirmed several cases of chickenpox in the capital and is urging residents to be vigilant to prevent further spread of the highly contagious viral infection.
In a public notice issued on Friday, 10 July, the City of Harare said all affected individuals are receiving appropriate medical care.
It added that it is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) to strengthen surveillance and implement measures aimed at curbing transmission.
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and through direct contact with fluid from the characteristic skin blisters. An infected person can transmit the virus from one to two days before the rash appears until all blisters have dried and formed crusts.
Residents are being advised to watch for common symptoms, which include fever, headache, loss of appetite, general body weakness and fatigue, and an itchy rash that progresses into fluid-filled blisters before drying into scabs.
The local authority said prompt medical attention should be sought, particularly for infants, pregnant women, adults and people with weakened immune systems, who face a higher risk of severe complications.
Parents and guardians have been encouraged to monitor their children daily for signs of illness. Children with suspected or confirmed chickenpox should stay at home and avoid school, childcare centres and public gatherings until all blisters have completely crusted over. Schools should also be notified immediately if a child is diagnosed with the disease.
To reduce transmission, the City Health Department is urging good hygiene practices. These include washing hands regularly with soap and clean water or using alcohol-based hand sanitisers, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Where available, eligible children should receive routine vaccination against chickenpox as recommended by healthcare providers.
Schools have been advised to intensify surveillance for learners presenting with fever and rash, promote regular hand hygiene, keep classrooms well ventilated, and report any suspected outbreaks promptly to local health authorities. Affected learners should remain at home until they are no longer infectious.
The City of Harare said the situation is under close monitoring and there is no cause for alarm. However, it stressed that prompt reporting of suspected cases and strict adherence to public health measures will be critical in limiting the spread and protecting communities.
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