Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – Five people have died at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo after being admitted with a severe flu-like illness that has been circulating in the city and other parts of the country. The deaths were confirmed by hospital officials on August 8, 2026, prompting an urgent investigation by health authorities.
The patients, whose identities have not been released, presented with symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, body aches, and difficulty breathing. According to medical staff at Mpilo, the illness appears to be more aggressive than the common seasonal flu, with several patients deteriorating rapidly despite treatment.
“We are seeing a higher than usual number of flu cases presenting with severe respiratory distress,” a senior physician at Mpilo Central Hospital told News-Zimbabwe. “The five deaths occurred over the past week, and we are working closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to determine the exact strain of the virus.”
Samples from the deceased and other patients have been sent to the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory in Harare for testing. Authorities are trying to establish whether the outbreak is linked to a new strain of influenza, a resurgence of H1N1, or another respiratory pathogen such as adenovirus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The flu-like illness has been reported in several high-density suburbs of Bulawayo, including Nkulumane, Pumula, and Entumbane, as well as in other provinces such as Matabeleland North and Midlands. Health officials have urged residents to practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and seek medical attention early if symptoms develop.
“We are advising the public to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza, wash hands frequently with soap and water, and wear masks in crowded places if feeling unwell,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health. “Those with underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or HIV are at higher risk and should be especially cautious.”
Mpilo Central Hospital, one of the largest referral hospitals in Zimbabwe, has activated its emergency response protocols and set up an isolation ward for suspected cases. Additional medical supplies, including antiviral drugs and personal protective equipment, are being distributed to health facilities across Bulawayo.
This outbreak comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s healthcare system is still recovering from previous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and recurrent cholera outbreaks. Health experts have called for increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns to prevent further spread.
As investigations continue, authorities have not yet declared a formal outbreak, but residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow updates from the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
