Yesha
Senior Member
- Jan 28, 2026
- 142
- 64
Health experts are urging Zimbabweans not to panic as flu-like illnesses continue to spread across the country, saying the symptoms could be caused by COVID-19, seasonal influenza or another respiratory virus.
The advice comes as many people report coughs, fevers, sore throats and other respiratory symptoms, prompting concerns on social media about a possible resurgence of COVID-19.
Speaking on the issue, prominent physician and public health expert Dr Johannes Marisa said it is not yet possible to determine the exact virus responsible without laboratory testing, as several respiratory infections present with similar symptoms. He noted that the circulating illness "may be COVID-19, it may not be COVID-19, it may be the seasonal flu caused by influenza type A, type B or type C."
Dr Marisa urged Zimbabweans not to delay seeking medical attention if they develop complications, warning that while many people recover at home, worsening symptoms should not be ignored.
Health experts are advising the public to remain calm and follow basic preventive measures, including staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, washing hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others when feeling unwell. They also recommend wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
People are being encouraged to monitor their condition closely and seek prompt medical care if they experience difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, dehydration or symptoms that worsen instead of improving. Older adults, pregnant women, young children and people living with chronic illnesses are considered more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections.
Health authorities have also sought to reassure the public that seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses are common during the winter months and that there is currently no evidence to justify widespread panic. Officials continue to encourage responsible health practices and early treatment to reduce complications and limit the spread of infection.
The advice comes as many people report coughs, fevers, sore throats and other respiratory symptoms, prompting concerns on social media about a possible resurgence of COVID-19.
Speaking on the issue, prominent physician and public health expert Dr Johannes Marisa said it is not yet possible to determine the exact virus responsible without laboratory testing, as several respiratory infections present with similar symptoms. He noted that the circulating illness "may be COVID-19, it may not be COVID-19, it may be the seasonal flu caused by influenza type A, type B or type C."
Dr Marisa urged Zimbabweans not to delay seeking medical attention if they develop complications, warning that while many people recover at home, worsening symptoms should not be ignored.
Health experts are advising the public to remain calm and follow basic preventive measures, including staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, washing hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others when feeling unwell. They also recommend wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
People are being encouraged to monitor their condition closely and seek prompt medical care if they experience difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, dehydration or symptoms that worsen instead of improving. Older adults, pregnant women, young children and people living with chronic illnesses are considered more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections.
Health authorities have also sought to reassure the public that seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses are common during the winter months and that there is currently no evidence to justify widespread panic. Officials continue to encourage responsible health practices and early treatment to reduce complications and limit the spread of infection.
