The Tanzanian government has issued a public health alert warning of a seasonal rise in COVID-19 and influenza infections, alongside growing concerns over dengue fever and ongoing cholera cases in several regions.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Magembe said in a public notice released in Dodoma today that the Ministry of Health had observed an increase in acute respiratory infections, including Covid-19 and influenza, particularly during the November to April period when cases typically surge both domestically and globally.
The statement urged citizens to remain vigilant as respiratory viruses continue to spread through droplets expelled when infected individuals cough, sneeze or speak. The viruses may also be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Health authorities advised the public to adopt preventive measures including covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing hands regularly with running water and soap or using hand sanitiser, avoiding unnecessary crowds, wearing face masks when experiencing symptoms or when in close proximity to symptomatic individuals, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene.
The ministry also cautioned against self-medication, particularly the use of antibiotics without professional medical advice, and encouraged individuals experiencing symptoms to seek care at the nearest health facility.
In addition to Covid-19 and influenza, Tanzania warned of increased dengue fever risk during the ongoing rainy season, when mosquito breeding accelerates. Dengue is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during the day.
Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, and pain behind the eyes. Authorities noted that dengue symptoms can resemble those of malaria and called for early medical testing.
Preventive measures include eliminating stagnant water around homes, clearing clogged drains, covering water storage containers, wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellents and installing window screens.
The ministry also confirmed that Tanzania has been battling a cholera outbreak affecting multiple regions, including Kilimanjaro and Njombe, over the past several months.
While significant progress has been made in containing the outbreak, officials warned that heavy rains could increase the risk of further spread.
The government said it continues to monitor all outbreak-prone diseases closely and will provide updates if there are significant changes in transmission trends or if additional public health measures become necessary.
Tanzania’s latest alert reflects broader regional concerns over seasonal disease outbreaks linked to climate variability, heavy rains, and increased population movement, underscoring the continued need for public health vigilance.
(Business Insider)
