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The Ministry of Health has issued a warning to the public regarding the rise in infectious diseases, including COVID-19, dengue fever, and severe flu, urging them to take preventive measures to control the spread of these illnesses.
A statement from the Chief Government Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Magembe, released today, February 25, 2026, clarified that this warning comes in response to an increase in cases across various regions of the country.
"Monitoring data indicates that every year, from November to April, there is a surge in severe influenza and COVID-19 cases both in the country and globally," part of Dr. Magembe's statement reads.
These infectious diseases are among the dangerous illnesses previously reported in Tanzania, claiming the lives of millions, including COVID-19, which, after causing disruptions for two years, saw a decrease in cases following the vaccination rollout that began on July 28, 2021.
The Ministry of Health has urged citizens to adhere to health guidelines, including washing hands with running water and soap or using hand sanitizers, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding unnecessary gatherings.
"This situation calls for each of us to take precautions, seek medical treatment promptly at health service centers, and avoid self-medication or using antibiotics without professional health advice," part of the statement explains.
Regarding dengue fever, which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, the ministry has noted that it continues to be reported in certain areas, especially during the rainy season.
To combat this fever, Dr. Magembe's report encourages citizens to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by maintaining clean environments, using mosquito nets, and wearing long clothing to prevent mosquito bites.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health has advised the public to take precautions against cholera, despite the absence of reported cases in the past month.
The emphasized actions include drinking clean and safe water that has been boiled or treated with special chemicals, washing hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet, as well as maintaining cleanliness in the environment and food.
The Ministry of Health has stressed that it will continue to monitor the trends of these diseases and provide updates to the public as needed, while urging citizens to cooperate with health authorities in controlling and preventing outbreaks.