Flu Outbreak Hits Bulawayo, Children Under Five Most Affected

Authorities at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo have confirmed a flu outbreak in the city, with children under five being the most affected.

Mpilo Central Hospital’s Clinical Director, Solwayo Ngwenya, said the hospital has seen a rise in cases of toddlers seeking treatment for respiratory illnesses. He added:

“We do not have children admitted with a specific flu bug. However, there appears to be a slight increase in sick children with respiratory disease. It is probably a seasonal trend.”

Ngwenya urged parents to be vigilant and look out for signs and symptoms of the flu. “If the children are very sick with high temperatures, sneezing, and coughing, seek medical attention earlier rather than later,” he advised.

He further urged parents to keep children who appear severely unwell at home to prevent the spread of the infection to others, especially in schools.

Pharmacists at local pharmacies have confirmed a surge in demand for children’s flu medication in the city over the past three weeks. A pharmacist said:

“We have seen an increase in parents seeking medication for their toddlers, which suggests that the flu bug is indeed spreading rapidly. We have been overwhelmed with concerned parents seeking help for their sick children and unfortunately, we have temporarily run out of children’s flu medication. We are working to restock our shelves as soon as possible.” Pindula