Harare Records Nearly 600 HFMD Cases as Outbreak Spreads Citywide

Harare is grappling with a rising outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), with close to 600 cases reported across the city — most of them involving young children.

According to City of Harare epidemiologist Dr Michael Vere, a total of 575 infections had been recorded by 20 November, with children under the age of 10 being the most affected. He said about 90 percent of the cases involve children below five years old.

The bulk of the infections have been identified in high-density areas, with Mabvuku and Tafara alone accounting for more than 100 cases. However, the outbreak has now extended to other parts of the capital, including Budiriro, Mbare, Glen View, Kuwadzana, Mufakose and Waterfalls, as well as some medium-density suburbs such as Braeside.

Dr Vere said many of the affected children are developing painful blisters on their hands, feet, lips and inside the mouth  symptoms that often make eating and drinking uncomfortable.

Although the disease is spreading widely, he stressed that HFMD is usually mild and deaths are uncommon. Most patients recover at home with basic care, such as managing fever and easing discomfort. A small number of children may develop complications when blisters or sores become infected with bacteria.

He also warned that HFMD is highly contagious, spreading through droplets or direct contact with infected individuals or surfaces. Dr Vere encouraged residents to prioritize hygiene by washing hands regularly and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces with household cleaning agents.