Government insists recent flu spike not COVID-19, encourages precautions

 

Zim Now Writer

The government addressed concerns about a recent rise in flu cases, assuring the public it's not a resurgence of COVID-19. Information Minister Jenfan Muswere emphasized that Zimbabwe hasn't recorded a single COVID case in the past four weeks.

 However, Muswere urged people to take precautions against the seasonal influenza virus, which typically increases as winter approaches. He advised frequent hand washing, avoiding crowds, and proper cough/sneeze etiquette. Additionally, staying home when experiencing flu symptoms is recommended.

During a parliamentary session, Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora acknowledged the lack of data on influenza-related deaths. He explained that some people, particularly young children, the elderly, and adults with underlying health conditions, are more susceptible to complications from the flu.

Mombeshora downplayed social media reports of widespread influenza deaths, calling them exaggerations. While acknowledging the presence of flu cases, he pledged to gather data on related fatalities.