Quick select common symptoms:
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is preventable and curable, but can be fatal if not treated promptly. In Zimbabwe, it is a major cause of illness and death, especially in young children and pregnant women.
Diarrhoea is defined as passing three or more loose or watery stools in a 24-hour period. It is a symptom of an infection in the intestinal tract, which can be caused by various bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Diarrhoea is a leading cause of death in young children, primarily because the loss of fluids and electrolytes leads to severe dehydration. Cholera is a particularly severe form of acute watery diarrhoea that can lead to death within hours if left untreated.
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It is a leading cause of death in children worldwide. The air sacs in the lungs fill with pus and fluid, which makes it difficult to breathe and limits oxygen intake. Pneumonia can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. It is critical to identify the signs of pneumonia early, as prompt treatment with antibiotics (for bacterial pneumonia) can save lives.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. It is caused by a type of bacteria that spreads from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes. While TB primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, and spine (extra-pulmonary TB). TB is curable and preventable, but treatment requires a long course of antibiotics. It is a major health problem in Zimbabwe, often linked with HIV.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (a type of white blood cell). If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease called AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection when the body's immune system is badly damaged and becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections and cancers. There is no cure for HIV, but with effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), the virus can be controlled, and people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. It is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no warning signs or symptoms, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and vision loss. Regular screening is the only way to know if you have high blood pressure.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces, or when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar (glucose). Uncontrolled diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which over time causes serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and heart.
Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. It is not just one disease but many diseases. Your role as a DHP is not to diagnose cancer, but to recognize the general warning signs and the specific signs of common cancers in Zimbabwe (like cervical, breast, and prostate cancer) and to ensure people get screened and Contact Customer Care Teamred early. Early detection saves lives. General Cancer Warning Signs (Remember CAUTION) • • • • • • • Change in bowel or bladder habits. A sore that does not heal. Unusual bleeding or discharge (from the vagina, nipple, or in the stool/urine). Thickening or a lump in the breast, testicles, or elsewhere. Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing. Obvious change in a wart or mole. Nagging cough or hoarseness of voice.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs. This makes it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms are often episodic, meaning they come and go in "attacks." These attacks can be triggered by various factors like dust, smoke, pollen, cold air, exercise, or respiratory infections.
Antenatal care (ANC) is the routine health control of pregnant women to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and identify any potential problems. Your role as a DHP is to identify pregnant women early, encourage them to attend all their ANC visits, and be able to recognize the danger signs during pregnancy that require immediate medical attention. Usual Symptoms (of a normal pregnancy) • • • • • Missed menstrual period Nausea and vomiting (especially in the first trimester) Breast tenderness and enlargement Fatigue Frequent urination
The postnatal period is the first six weeks after delivery. This is a critical time for both the mother and the newborn, as most maternal and infant deaths occur during this period. Your role is to conduct home visits to check on the mother and baby, identify danger signs early, and support healthy practices like breastfeeding and hygiene.
Malnutrition Contact Customer Care Teams to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. This section focuses on undernutrition in children under five, which includes being underweight, stunted (too short for their age), and wasted (too thin for their height). Wasting, or acute malnutrition, is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent attention.
Mental health conditions are disorders that affect a person's mood, thinking, and behavior. They are common and treatable. Your role is not to diagnose, but to recognize signs of distress, provide psychological first aid, and help the person connect to care. Stigma is a major barrier, so a compassionate, non-judgmental approach is essential. • • • Depression: Persistent sadness, loss of interest, feelings of worthlessness. Anxiety: Excessive worry, fear, and physical symptoms like a racing heart. Psychosis: Losing touch with reality (hallucinations, delusions).
This category covers any vaginal bleeding that is not normal for the woman. This includes heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, bleeding after intercourse, and bleeding after menopause. It is a common complaint that can be caused by a wide range of issues, from hormonal imbalances to infections, fibroids, or cancer.
This covers issues or side effects arising from the use of contraceptive methods. While modern family planning is very safe, some women experience side effects, and rare complications can occur. Your role is to reassure, provide accurate information, and recognize the few warning signs that require clinical attention. Common Side Effects (Usually Not Dangerous) • • Hormonal Methods (Pills, Injections, Implants): ◦ Irregular bleeding or spotting, especially in the first few months. ◦ Headaches, nausea, mood changes. ◦ Weight changes. Intrauterine Device (IUD): ◦ Copper IUD: Heavier or more painful periods. ◦ Hormonal IUD: Irregular bleeding, which usually decreases over time.
This covers injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and deeper wounds caused by accidents. The main goals are to control bleeding, prevent infection, and assess for more serious underlying damage.
Burns are injuries to the skin caused by heat (fire, hot liquids, steam), electricity, chemicals, or radiation. They are classified by their depth (first, second, or third degree).
This covers bites from animals (dogs, cats) and snakes, as well as stings from insects (bees, wasps, scorpions).
This is a broad category covering common skin problems like fungal infections (ringworm), bacterial infections (impetigo), scabies, and allergic rashes. Your role is to describe the rash or sore accurately so the remote doctor can make a visual diagnosis.
This covers common dental issues like tooth decay leading to a toothache, or a dental abscess, which is a collection of pus that can form inside the teeth, in the gums, or in the bone that holds the teeth in place.
Substance abuse is the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It can lead to dependence syndrome, which includes strong cravings, difficulty controlling use, and a harmful pattern of use despite negative consequences. Usual Symptoms (Signs of Intoxication or Chronic Use) • • • Behavioral Changes: Aggression, agitation, changes in mood, paranoia. Physical Signs: Red eyes, poor coordination, changes in sleep or appetite, neglect of personal hygiene. Social Problems: Problems at work or school, financial difficulties, relationship issues.