The City of Harare has dismissed rumours of an Ebola outbreak in Zimbabwe, saying no cases have been reported.

In a preparedness alert titled “EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE PREPAREDNESS & ALERT”, council said:

“The City of Harare would like to advise the public that currently there are no reported cases of Ebola in Zimbabwe.”

Council said the country remains on high alert due to regional outbreaks.

“However, the country remains on high alert due to regional outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and recently in Nigeria and Kenya,” the statement said.

Council said it has intensified surveillance.

It has also designated specialised isolation facilities in Harare to ensure rapid response and community protection.

“Health screening and surveillance at ports of entry fully active for detection and management of suspected cases.

“Residents are encouraged to remain alert and follow official public health guidance,” it said.

Ebola Symptoms

On symptoms, the City said:

“Symptoms of Ebola may include sudden fever, severe headache, muscle pain, extreme weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unexplained bruising or bleeding.”

“Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water or use an appropriate alcohol-based hand sanitiser.”

It further warned people to avoid contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola.

Do not handle potentially contaminated materials without appropriate protective equipment.”

Residents with symptoms after travel to outbreak areas were urged to seek immediate care.

“If you develop symptoms after travelling to an area experiencing an Ebola outbreak, or following contact with a suspected or confirmed case, seek urgent medical attention from the nearest health facility,” the City said.