CITY authorities have blamed the sale and storage of second-hand clothes for the resurgence of bedbugs in Mbare. Health officials have started to move in to contain what they describe as a serious outbreak. In an interview with H-Metro yesterday, Dr Prosper Chonzi, Director of Health at the Harare City Council, said investigations were underway.
This follows complaints from residents of Matapi, Matererini and Mbare Flats that they were having sleepless nights because of the pests. “We have noted with concern the resurgence of bedbugs in Mbare. “Our investigations point to the storage and trading of imported second-hand clothes in some of the affected flats as one of the major drivers of this outbreak.” Residents in the high-density suburb say the infestation has spread rapidly from one block to another, with families reporting itchy bites, discomfort and frustration.” Dr Chonzi said the city has since collected samples of the bedbugs for laboratory analysis.
“We have harvested specimens for sensitivity testing to determine whether they are the same strain previously recorded and to guide us on the most effective chemicals to use,” he said. While awaiting laboratory results, the local authority has already begun fumigation in the worst-affected blocks. “Spraying operations are currently underway.
[paywall]
However, chemical intervention alone will not solve the problem,” Dr Chonzi said. He said a co-ordinated response is required to prevent the spread of the infestation beyond Mbare. “This requires a multi-sectoral approach involving residents, traders, health authorities and other Government departments.
“If second hand clothes continue to be stored in residential flats under congested conditions, our efforts will be undermined,” he said. Officials also cited cluttered living spaces as contributing to the rapid breeding and spread of the pests.
[/paywall]
All Zim News – Bringing you the latest news and updates.
