Zimbabwe Records HFMD Outbreak: What Parents and Communities Need to Know

Zimbabwe has recently recorded an increase in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases, prompting health authorities, schools, and parents to increase vigilance. While HFMD is usually mild and common among young children, quick awareness and early action are important to reduce its spread.

What Is HFMD?

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral illness caused mainly by enteroviruses. It spreads easily in places where children interact closely, such as schools, day-care centres and playgrounds.

Although the name may sound severe, HFMD is generally not dangerous and most children recover fully within 7–10 days.

How It Spreads

HFMD spreads through:

• Close contact with an infected person

• Coughing or sneezing

• Touching contaminated surfaces or toys

• Sharing cups, utensils or towels

• Contact with saliva or nasal fluids

Because young children frequently play together and often share items, outbreaks tend to move quickly.

Common Symptoms

Most symptoms are mild. They may include:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Feeling generally unwell

• Small spots or rashes on the hands, feet, or around the mouth

• Reduced appetite in young children

These symptoms can be uncomfortable, but they are usually manageable at home with rest and fluids.

What Parents Should Do

If your child shows symptoms:

• Keep them at home to prevent spreading the infection

• Make sure they drink plenty of fluids

• Give them soft foods if they find swallowing painful

• Maintain good hygiene—frequent handwashing is key

• Wipe down surfaces, toys, and shared items

If symptoms become severe or last longer than expected, contact a healthcare provider for advice.

What Schools and ECD Centres Must Do

• Increase handwashing routines

• Regularly sanitize toys, desks, doorknobs

• Identify and isolate children with symptoms until they go home

• Share accurate information with caregivers

• Encourage parents not to send sick children to school

Early communication is important to prevent further spread.

Government and Health Sector Response

Local health authorities are:

• Monitoring cases across districts

• Issuing guidance to schools and communities

• Promoting hygiene campaigns

• Encouraging parents to seek medical attention when necessary

Zimbabwe has successfully managed similar outbreaks before, and public cooperation will play a major role in containing this one.

How Communities Can Support Prevention

• Promote proper handwashing in households

• Clean shared spaces

• Avoid unnecessary panic—HFMD is manageable

• Spread verified information, not rumours

Conclusion

HFMD is not a life-threatening disease, and Zimbabwe’s health systems are well-positioned to manage the outbreak. With proper hygiene, early detection, and responsible community behaviour, the spread can be controlled effectively.

The key is awareness, calmness, and cooperation.