The City of Harare has issued a public alert regarding a concerning outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), a highly contagious viral infection. Authorities have confirmed a significant number of cases, with at least 501 individuals affected across various suburbs within the city. The outbreak primarily impacts children under the age of 10, prompting increased vigilance among parents and guardians.

According to a public notice released on Thursday by the local authority, the areas most affected by the viral infection include Mabvuku, Mbare, Budiriro, and Waterfalls. The City of Harare emphasized the disease's high contagiousness, explaining that it spreads through direct contact with blisters or through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing and sneezing. While a substantial number of cases have been recorded, officials have reassuringly stated that no deaths have been reported thus far.

Despite HFMD being generally described as a self-limiting condition—meaning it typically resolves without specific intervention—the City of Harare strongly advises parents and guardians to treat symptoms seriously and seek prompt medical attention. The public notice reiterated that treatment for HFMD is primarily symptomatic, focusing on alleviating discomfort rather than curing the virus itself. Residents are also urged to take precautions by avoiding direct contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms, thereby helping to curb further transmission of this highly contagious disease. Furthermore, the city reinforced the importance of immediately taking any child showing signs of infection to the nearest clinic or hospital for assessment and care.