The Ministry of Health, through the Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, has released the Week 51 Influenza and COVID-19 Surveillance Report, confirming that no cases of Influenza or COVID-19 were detected across the monitored sentinel surveillance sites in Tanzania. The report covers the period from 15 to 21 December 2025 and reflects continued progress in controlling respiratory diseases through routine national surveillance systems.
Increase in Samples, No Positive Cases Detected
According to the Ministry of Health Epidemiology Section, the total number of samples tested during the reporting week increased from 52 to 56, indicating sustained surveillance activity.
Despite the increased testing:
All 56 samples tested negative for Influenza, resulting in a positivity rate of 0.0%, down from 5.8% in the previous week.
All samples also tested negative for COVID-19, marking four consecutive weeks with no confirmed COVID-19 cases from sentinel surveillance sites.
Regional Contribution to Surveillance
Samples were submitted from five regions as part of the national sentinel surveillance system:
This wide regional participation strengthens confidence in the national respiratory disease surveillance framework.
Favorable Epidemiological Trend Observed
Trend analysis from Week 01 to Week 51 of 2025 shows a declining pattern of Influenza cases and a sustained absence of COVID-19 transmission within the surveillance network, suggesting effective disease control measures and timely detection.
Risk Remains Low, Vigilance Encouraged
The Ministry of Health assesses the current public health risk for Influenza and COVID-19 as low. However, increased seasonal travel, social gatherings, and population movement during the festive period may elevate the risk of transmission if preventive measures are relaxed.
Public Health Recommendations
To sustain the current gains, the Ministry of Health recommends:
NB: The Week 51 surveillance report indicates a stable and well-controlled situation for both Influenza and COVID-19 in Tanzania. SOHICOHE shares this update in support of national efforts to promote transparency, preparedness, and community awareness in public health.
Source:Ministry of Health – Epidemiology and Disease Control Section
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