Harare Confirms Scabies Outbreak in Hopley, Stoneridge

By Southerton Business Times Reporter

HARARE – The City of Harare has confirmed a scabies outbreak in the high-density suburbs of Hopley and Stoneridge, with the majority of reported infections affecting children under the age of 12. In a public health statement issued by the city's Health Department, authorities said the outbreak was first detected in mid-June 2026 and has since spread within the affected communities, prompting an intensified disease surveillance and response programme.

Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the microscopic Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the upper layer of the skin, causing severe itching and skin irritation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease spreads mainly through prolonged skin-to-skin contact and is more common in overcrowded living conditions where close physical contact is frequent.

The City of Harare said children account for most of the confirmed cases, raising concern over the potential for transmission in homes, schools and childcare settings. Common symptoms include:

• Intense itching, particularly at night;

• A red, bumpy skin rash;

• Thin, irregular burrow lines on the skin;

• Sores caused by excessive scratching, which may become infected with bacteria.

Health officials warned that untreated scabies can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections, including impetigo, and, in severe cases, complications affecting the kidneys or heart.

The council has urged anyone experiencing persistent itching or skin rashes to visit the nearest health facility for diagnosis and treatment.

"Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing further transmission of the disease," the Health Department said.

Authorities also stressed that all household members and close contacts of an infected person should be examined and treated where necessary, even if they are not showing symptoms, to reduce the risk of re-infestation.

The City of Harare said it has activated comprehensive outbreak response measures, including enhanced disease surveillance, case management, community education and awareness campaigns in the affected suburbs. Health teams are working closely with residents to identify new cases, provide treatment and promote preventive measures. To reduce the spread of scabies, residents have been advised to:

• Maintain good personal hygiene;

• Avoid sharing clothing, towels, blankets and bedding;

• Wash clothing and bed linen in hot water and dry them thoroughly;

• Complete the full course of prescribed treatment; and

• Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop.

The local authority has appealed to residents to cooperate with health workers and rapid response teams as efforts continue to contain the outbreak. Public health experts note that while scabies is highly contagious, it is treatable, and outbreaks can be brought under control through early diagnosis, treatment of close contacts and improved hygiene practices.

Harare scabies outbreak