By Richard Shumba
Ever since the inception of the winter season, a lot of people have been experiencing flu-like sickness with many now resortingback to wearing masks as they fear a possible new outbreak.
A snap survey conducted by this reporter realized that there were heightened fears the deadly COVID-19 pandemic that claimed thousands of lives locally, regionally, and globally in recent years had made a comeback.
The rise in flu cases and suspected deaths in recent weeks has caused pandemonium over the cold, something which has caused panic among residents.
Speaking to this publication a Ridgemont resident said some of the flu-like symptoms she was experiencing were similar to the symptoms of covid 19 she once went through and was ready to make sure that covid 19 does not attack her again.
“I am a covid 19 survivor and it was a torrid time for me to the extent that I thought maybe I was going to die and some of the symptoms I am currently feeling are similar to the flu-like symptoms I felt during the previous Covid 19 outbreak. I have chest pains, sore throat, and weakness in joints hence, I have decided to wear a mask to make sure I do not spread or contract my flu to others,” she said.
Another resident also indicated that they were particularly wearing masks because they also feared contracting the flu.
“It’s better to be safe than sorry because history has taught us well hence, we have to be proactive in defending ourselves and making sure that me and my family are safe,” he said.
However, the Ministry of Health demystified speculations concerning the widely held fears of a new possible covid 19 variants saying that the flu-like illnesses the majority of Zimbabweans are facing are a result of the common cold flu.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care would want to reassure the public that the flu-like illnesses seen in the country are due to the common cold. The winter season is associated with increased incidence of common colds and that is what has been seen so far. The cases are neither due to Covid-19 or other new viruses. There is no viral pandemic in Zimbabwe,” read the statement.
The statement also further emphasized the imperative need for people to avoid and manage flulike illness by taking necessary precaution.
The public is advised to lead healthy lifestyles, take lots of fluids, keep warm, and where necessary take over-the-counter common cold remedies,” the Ministry urged Zimbabweans.
