Infectious diseases spread significantly across Maldives last month, more than 7,000 cases of diarrhea reported in the Greater Male' area alone
HPA has reported a significant nationwide surge in cases of dengue fever, the common cold, and diarrhea this January compared to December. With influenza cases also on the rise, the agency urges the public to prioritize personal hygiene and take necessary precautionary measures to curb the spread of these illnesses.
Students of Kalaafaanu School undergo screening as part of the national student health screening program (File Photo) | IGMH | igmh
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported a significant surge in the spread of communicable diseases across all atolls of the Maldives over the past month.
Regarding the current status of spreading viral infections, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) stated on Thursday that the number of reported dengue fever cases in January has increased compared to December last year. A total of 647 cases were reported in January, up from 424 cases in December.
According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), 29,461 cases of the common cold were reported in December 2025, increasing to 34,840 cases in January 2026. Additionally, cases of diarrhea rose from 3,405 in December to 7,792 in January.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has noted a rise in reported cases of diarrhea in Male' City and across all atolls. The agency further stated that instances of dengue fever, viral fever, and the common cold have also increased in most parts of the country.
Furthermore, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) stated that out of 791 samples tested for influenza so far this year, 96 have returned positive results.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to take precautionary measures as respiratory infections and viral flus continue to rise across the Maldives.
In this regard, the public is advised to avoid crowds if infected, wear masks, and practice frequent hand washing. Furthermore, individuals are urged to consult a doctor and seek medical treatment upon falling ill.
