HARARE has recorded 501 cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) – a viral infection that mostly affects children under the age of 10.
The cases have been recorded in areas like Mabvuku, Mbare, Budiriro and Waterfalls and no deaths have been recorded so far.
In a statement on Thursday, the City of Harare has urged the public to be on the lookout.
“The infection is causing blisters on the mouth, hands and feet. The disease may also present a sore throat.
“The disease is spread through direct contact with the blisters and droplets mainly from coughs or sneezes.
“So far 501 cases have been recorded mainly in Mabvuku, Mbare, Budiriro and Waterfalls.
“The public is advised to avoid direct contact with the those showing symptoms as it a highly contagious disease,” reads the statement.
The council also announced that treatment for the disease is free at their clinics around the city.
“No deaths have been recorded and those with the symptoms are advised to report to the nearest clinic or hospital.
“Treatment for the disease is free at the City of Harare clinics. We urge residents to immediately take children with symptoms of the disease to the clinic.”
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