Scabies Outbreak Strikes Hopley and Stoneridge

The City of Harare Health Department has confirmed an outbreak of scabies in the Hopley and Stoneridge suburbs, first detected in mid-June 2026. This highly contagious skin condition is currently affecting many residents, with the majority of reported cases involving children under the age of 12.

What is Scabies?

Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. These mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin, where they live and lay eggs.

Common Symptoms:

• Intense Itching: This is often the most prominent symptom, which typically worsens significantly at night.
• Skin Rash and Sores: Burrows (small, raised lines) may be visible on the skin. Scratching these itchy areas can lead to open sores and, subsequently, secondary bacterial skin infections.

Why the Outbreak in Hopley and Stoneridge?

Scabies outbreaks are synonymous with overcrowded living conditions and areas with limited access to water or sanitation. In suburbs like Hopley and Stoneridge, high population density and shared housing environments create the perfect conditions for the mites to spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact or the sharing of clothing, bedding, and towels.

While officials are currently conducting surveillance and awareness campaigns, residents and observers have expressed frustration that preventative measures are often reactive rather than proactive. Public health experts note that without addressing the structural drivers of disease—such as housing density, water infrastructure, and the underlying socioeconomic stressors of informal settlements—communities remain perpetually vulnerable to these “neglected tropical diseases”.

Clarifying Misconceptions: Mpox and Chickenpox

It is important to note that scabies is not related to mpox or chickenpox. These are distinct conditions:

• Chickenpox is caused by a virus (varicella-zoster). While the rashes can look somewhat similar to those of other conditions, chickenpox usually presents with flu-like symptoms and follows a different viral progression.
• Mpox is also a viral infection that causes a specific progression of lesions.
• Scabies is a parasitic infestation, not a viral infection. It does not cause systemic “flu-like” symptoms.

Prevention and Treatment

There is no vaccine for scabies. Prevention relies entirely on hygiene and avoiding contact with infested individuals or their personal items.

How to protect your household:

• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share clothing, towels, or bedding with someone suspected of having scabies.
• Hot Water Washing: Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (at least 50°C) and dry them on high heat. Mites cannot survive long away from human skin, but these steps ensure they are eliminated from your environment.
• Seek Early Treatment: If you or a family member show symptoms, visit the nearest City of Harare clinic immediately.
• Treat the Whole Household: Even if family members do not show symptoms, it is critical that they are assessed and treated alongside the infected individual to prevent the cycle of re-infestation.

The City of Harare urges all residents to cooperate with rapid response teams and adhere to the guidance provided by health personnel to contain this outbreak.