Harare confirms chickenpox cases, urges vigilance

The City of Harare has urged residents, parents and schools to remain vigilant after confirming several cases of chickenpox in the capital.

HARARE – The City of Harare has confirmed several cases of chickenpox in the capital and is urging residents to remain vigilant as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the spread of the highly contagious viral disease.

In a public notice issued on Friday, July 10, the city's Health Department said all confirmed patients were receiving appropriate medical care and that surveillance had been strengthened in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC). The local authority said the current situation was being closely monitored and there was no cause for public panic, but stressed that early detection and adherence to public health measures would be critical in preventing further infections.

Chickenpox, medically known as varicella, spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with fluid from the disease's characteristic skin blisters. Health officials warned that infected individuals can spread the virus one to two days before the rash develops and remain contagious until all blisters have dried and formed scabs.

Residents have been urged to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, headache, loss of appetite, fatigue, body weakness and an itchy rash that progresses into fluid-filled blisters before crusting over. The City of Harare said infants, pregnant women, adults and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe complications and should seek prompt medical care if symptoms develop.

Parents and guardians have been advised to monitor children daily for symptoms of chickenpox and keep those with suspected or confirmed infections at home until all blisters have completely crusted over. Schools and childcare centres should be notified immediately when a learner is diagnosed to enable health authorities to monitor potential exposure and prevent further transmission. The city also called on schools to strengthen surveillance for pupils presenting with fever and skin rashes, improve classroom ventilation, promote regular handwashing and report any suspected outbreaks without delay.

To minimise the spread of infection, health officials urged residents to:

• Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.

• Avoid close contact with infected individuals.

• Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

• Ensure eligible children receive routine chickenpox vaccination where available and recommended by healthcare providers.

The City of Harare reiterated that while the confirmed cases are under close observation, public cooperation remains essential in containing the outbreak.

"Prompt reporting of suspected cases and strict adherence to public health measures will be critical in limiting the spread and protecting communities," the city said.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged residents to remain informed through official public health updates.

Harare chickenpox cases