Itai Mazire
The City of Harare has officially confirmed a scabies outbreak in the Hopley, Stoneridge and surrounding communities, with children under the age of 12 accounting for the majority of reported cases.
In a public health statement the city’s Health Department revealed that the outbreak was first detected in mid-June.
Authorities are now urging residents who exhibit symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition triggered by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin.
Those infected typically suffer from intense itching, especially at night, along with skin rashes and sores resulting from scratching, which can pave the way for secondary bacterial infections.
According to health officials, the disease is primarily transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, as well as through the sharing of contaminated clothing, bedding and towels.
Residents experiencing persistent itching, skin rashes, or other related symptoms have been strongly advised to visit their nearest health facility for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The department further recommended that household members and close contacts of infected individuals should also be assessed and treated where necessary to avert the risk of re-infestation.
To help curb further transmission, the city has urged residents to adopt several preventive measures, including maintaining good personal hygiene, refraining from sharing clothing, towels, bedding, and other personal items.
It urged residents to wash clothing and bedding regularly in hot water, completing prescribed treatment courses and seeking prompt medical care if symptoms develop.
The Health Department stated that it has already activated outbreak response measures, which include enhanced disease surveillance, case management, health education and community awareness campaigns.
“Health teams are working closely with affected communities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission,” the statement read.
The city also appealed to residents to cooperate fully with health personnel and to follow the guidance provided by rapid response teams on the ground.
“For further information or assistance, members of the public are advised to visit their nearest City of Harare clinic or health facility.”