The Zimbabwean government has dismissed fears that new COVID-19 variants are currently circulating in the country, amid growing global concerns over fresh outbreaks linked to emerging strains of the virus.Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Sleiman Timios Kwidini, assured lawmakers that while new variants have been detected in several parts of the world, there is no evidence so far that any have reached Zimbabwe.
Kwidini was responding to a question from Mashonaland West proportional representation Member of Parliament Mutsa Murombedzi during a parliamentary Question and Answer session. Murombedzi had inquired about the government’s readiness to respond to potential threats, given the recent reports of a new and potentially deadly COVID-19 strain emerging in some countries.
“With new COVID variants being reported across the world, what measures has the government put in place to protect citizens from another wave?” asked Murombedzi.
In response, Kwidini stated, “We are aware that COVID-19 continues to evolve and that new variants are being detected in other regions. However, at this point, no such variants have been identified in Zimbabwe.”
He added that Zimbabwe’s health system is on alert and actively monitoring developments through existing surveillance systems. “We have not recorded any cases of these new variants. The Ministry continues to conduct routine testing and genome sequencing to detect any changes in the virus, and we have strengthened our preparedness in response to any possible resurgence.”
The Deputy Minister also acknowledged that the country is experiencing an increase in flu-like illnesses, but emphasized that current cases are being categorized as seasonal flu rather than COVID-19-related infections.
“We are currently managing a viral outbreak, but it has been confirmed by our health experts to be a common flu virus. It is not linked to a new wave of COVID-19,” Kwidini explained.
To enhance the country’s response capacity, Kwidini said the government has procured more testing kits and is in the process of securing new medication to be deployed in the event of a COVID-19 resurgence. He noted that lessons from previous waves — including the highly transmissible Omicron variant — have strengthened the country’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to health emergencies.
No New COVID-19 Variants Detected in Zimbabwe, Says Government
Globally, a number of countries, particularly in Asia and Europe, have begun reintroducing health precautions in response to a new subvariant of the virus, which is believed to be more contagious and capable of evading some forms of immunity. These developments have triggered renewed calls for preparedness and vigilance worldwide.
Despite these international developments, Zimbabwe has maintained low transmission rates in recent months, with most sectors having returned to normal operations. Schools, businesses, and public gatherings are functioning without restrictions, although health authorities continue to urge caution.
The Ministry of Health has encouraged citizens to maintain basic hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and mask-wearing in crowded environments, especially for vulnerable individuals. Citizens are also being advised to seek medical attention promptly if they experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
“We are not complacent. The Ministry continues to monitor all developments and will take the necessary steps should the situation change,” said Kwidini.
Health experts and civil society organisations have welcomed the government’s continued surveillance but are urging greater public communication and readiness planning, especially as global travel resumes and the potential for cross-border infections increases.
Zimbabwe experienced several significant COVID-19 waves between 2020 and 2022, including widespread hospitalisations and fatalities, particularly during the Delta and Omicron periods. Vaccination campaigns have helped reduce the impact of the virus, with a sizable portion of the population having received at least two doses.
While the current situation remains stable, authorities say it is important for Zimbabweans to stay alert and avoid complacency.
“Preparedness is key,” said Kwidini. “We are committed to protecting the health of our people and will continue to monitor both local and international trends to respond accordingly.”
The Deputy Minister’s remarks come at a time when many nations are reassessing their COVID-19 strategies amid uncertainty about the future trajectory of the virus. For now, Zimbabwe maintains a watchful stance — alert, but not alarmed.
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