Flu-like illness clusters spark health alert across Lesotho

‘MATHATO SEBOKA

MASERU – The Ministry of Health has confirmed worrying clusters of influenza-like illness in seven districts, triggering intensified investigations and public health interventions as the country enters its annual winter flu season.

Cases have been reported in Botha-Bothe, Berea, Maseru, Thaba-Tseka, Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek, and Quthing during May 2026, according to an official ministry statement. The clusters have emerged in schools and villages, raising concerns among health authorities about potential rapid community transmission.

District Rapid Response Teams (DRRTs) have been deployed to affected areas to investigate cases, provide medical care, and conduct health education campaigns aimed at curbing further spread.

“The clusters have been identified in various settings, including schools and villages,” the ministry said, adding that laboratory investigations are still underway to determine the exact cause of the reported illnesses.

The alert in the country comes amid heightened global vigilance following recent reports of unusual respiratory illness patterns across Southern Africa and beyond. In neighbouring South Africa, health authorities have recorded higher-than-normal influenza activity since early 2026, with several provinces reporting severe cases requiring hospitalisation.

Globally, the World Health Organization has been monitoring the continued circulation of Covid-19 variants alongside resurgent seasonal influenza, a phenomenon some epidemiologists have termed the “dual epidemic threat.” The Northern Hemisphere’s recent winter season saw an earlier-than-expected flu peak, with countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and China reporting significant pressure on healthcare systems.

Health experts note that Lesotho faces particular challenges during respiratory illness outbreaks. The country has one of the highest HIV/Aids prevalence rates globally, with approximately one in five adults living with the virus. This significantly increases the population’s vulnerability to severe influenza complications.

The Ministry acknowledged this reality, warning that while most people recover from seasonal flu within a week without medical treatment, severe complications can arise among vulnerable groups. These include pregnant women, children under five years, adults aged 65 years and older, and individuals living with chronic conditions such as HIV/Aids, diabetes, and lung diseases.

Seasonal flu symptoms include fever, cough, headache, sore throat, runny nose, and muscle and joint pain. The virus spreads mainly through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Infection can also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces, followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The incubation period typically ranges from one to four days.

The ministry has urged individuals experiencing severe symptoms, particularly those in high-risk categories, to seek medical attention at the nearest health facility as early as possible.

“Those at risk of severe disease are advised to seek medical treatment at the nearest health facility early, where medical professionals will manage them appropriately according to the clinical presentation,” the statement reads.

To reduce transmission, the public is encouraged to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; wash hands regularly with soap and running water or use alcohol-based hand sanitiser; wear face masks where necessary; and avoid crowded gatherings when experiencing flu-like symptoms.

The ministry also reminded the public that Cocid-19 cases continue to be recorded in different parts of the country. Officials stressed that adherence to the recommended preventive measures will help curb the spread of both seasonal influenza and Covid-19.

Despite respiratory illnesses being common during the winter season, which typically runs from April to September in Lesotho, the ministry emphasised that investigations are continuing to determine the cause of the reported clusters and whether additional public health measures are needed.

Health authorities have pledged to maintain surveillance and follow-up activities in affected communities as efforts continue to protect public health and prevent further outbreaks. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report unusual clusters of respiratory illness to local health facilities.