Dar es Salaam. The Government has cautioned members of the public to take preventive measures against a rise in seasonal infectious diseases as the long rains continue across the country.
In a statement released on February 25, 2026, by the Ministry of Health through Government Chief Medical Officer Dr. Grace Magembe, authorities reported an increase in cases of severe influenza and COVID-19 nationwide. Officials emphasized that such trends are typical during the rainy season, particularly between November and April.
“Surveillance data show that every year, from November through April, there is an increase in severe influenza and COVID-19 cases in our country and globally. This situation requires each of us to take precautionary measures,” the statement read in part.
According to the Ministry, the diseases spread through respiratory droplets from infected individuals, transmitted when coughing, sneezing, or speaking. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, headaches, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue.
Health authorities have urged the public to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently with running water and soap, avoid unnecessary crowds, wear face masks, and seek medical attention promptly when experiencing symptoms.
The Ministry also stressed the importance of avoiding self-medication. “Avoid treating yourself or using antibiotics without professional medical advice,” the statement emphasized.
Dengue Risk Heightens with Rains
The Ministry further warned about an increased risk of dengue fever as many parts of the country experience heavy rains, creating favorable breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the disease.
“Dengue fever is spread by the Aedes mosquito, a black mosquito with white stripes that typically bites during the morning, afternoon, and early evening,” the statement explained. “Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint pain, pain behind the eyes, and fatigue.”
Members of the public have been advised to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by properly disposing of discarded containers, burying or covering old tires and coconut shells, and draining stagnant water. Additional preventive measures include wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito repellents, and installing window screens.
Cholera Situation Improves, But Vigilance Urged
Regarding cholera, the Ministry noted that the country has been battling an outbreak affecting all regions except Kilimanjaro and Njombe. However, officials reported significant progress in controlling the disease.
“For approximately the past month, our country has not recorded any new cholera cases. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the contribution of various sectors, religious institutions, community leaders, journalists, the private sector, stakeholders under the coordination of the World Health Organization, and the community at large for their great efforts in controlling this disease,” the statement said.
Despite the positive trend, the Ministry warned that continued rainfall and ongoing infections in neighboring countries pose a risk of resurgence.
The public has been instructed to continue boiling or treating drinking water, washing hands with soap, cleaning fruits with safe water, and avoiding cold foods prepared in unhygienic environments. Authorities also emphasized the importance of building and maintaining clean latrines to prevent contamination of water and food sources.
Members of the public were further urged to avoid polluting water sources by defecating near them, dumping waste, or discharging sewage into waterways, and to maintain environmental cleanliness.
“The Government is prepared to monitor and provide services against all epidemic diseases and will continue issuing updates should there be changes in infection trends or the need for additional measures,” the statement concluded.
Ibrahim Mgaza reports for The Chanzo from Dar es Salaam. He’s available at ibrahimmgaza39@gmail.com.
