By The Respondent Reporter
Dar es salaam — Tanzania's Ministry of Health has issued a public alert following a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases over the past three months, highlighting a broader trend of rising respiratory illnesses across the country, particularly in urban centers like Dar es Salaam.
According to a statement released on May 20, 2025, COVID-19 positivity rates have escalated significantly—from 1.4 percent in February to 16.3 percent in March, and reaching 16.8 percent in April.
The surge marks the most notable uptick in infections since the virus began circulating at low endemic levels following earlier waves of the pandemic.
While officials clarify that COVID-19 remains largely under control and comparable to other seasonal respiratory diseases, the rapid increase has prompted renewed concerns about public health vigilance and preparedness.
“The presence of COVID-19 has never entirely disappeared. However, the data from February to April this year indicate a need for increased attention to respiratory infections,” the Ministry noted in its statement.
The government emphasized that this rise coincides with an overall increase in respiratory-related illness reports during the first four months of 2025, with Dar es Salaam being the most affected region.
Experts attribute some of these fluctuations to seasonal patterns, particularly the spread of influenza viruses, but stress the need to stay alert for any emergence of a new and potentially more dangerous pathogen.
Since 2018, Tanzania has operated a respiratory disease surveillance system designed to track disease trends, detect circulating viruses, and provide early warning signals for new outbreaks.
According to the Ministry, recent laboratory tests have shown expected seasonal shifts in influenza activity but found no evidence of a novel virus with pandemic potential.
Despite the lack of an immediate threat from new viral strains, the Ministry is urging the public to adhere strictly to health precautions.
These include wearing face masks in crowded areas, practicing respiratory etiquette such as covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, frequent handwashing or sanitizing, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene.
This announcement also comes amid ongoing efforts by the Tanzanian government to strengthen its health systems and enhance public awareness about both airborne and mosquito-borne diseases, which often see increases during certain seasonal periods.
As the world continues to adapt to a post-pandemic reality, health experts warn against complacency. Tanzania's case serves as a reminder that vigilance, public cooperation, and consistent health communication remain essential tools in managing both old and emerging health threats.
Source Daily News