Public urged to remain vigilant as reported dengue cases rise
The most critical measures to prevent the disease include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites, and strictly following the guidance and advice of healthcare professionals if infected with dengue.
A mosquito feeds on human blood. | Getty Images | Getty Images
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to exercise caution following an increase in reported dengue fever cases across various parts of the Maldives.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has warned that mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya, are expected to rise due to the current spell of heavy rain across the Maldives. The agency stated that it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to implement necessary measures to curb the spread of these illnesses.
The most critical measures to prevent the disease include eliminating mosquito breeding sites and taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Furthermore, those who contract dengue are advised to strictly follow the guidance and instructions provided by healthcare professionals.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged healthcare facilities to prioritize the early detection of dengue symptoms, expedite treatment, and closely monitor the condition of patients. Furthermore, the agency has called on authorities to monitor the extent of the disease's spread within the islands.
The agency also highlighted the measures councils must take to control the disease. In this regard, it has requested councils to establish task forces under their supervision to manage dengue, conduct public awareness campaigns, and carry out island-wide cleaning programs.
Furthermore, authorities have urged resorts, industrial zones, and construction sites to conduct weekly inspections to identify and eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds. The agency also encouraged non-governmental organizations and community groups to provide assistance to the public in these efforts.
Furthermore, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to prioritize inspecting their homes for potential water-holding containers and to ensure premises are kept clean to prevent mosquito breeding. According to statistics on the spread of dengue fever in the Maldives, 428 cases were reported in February, followed by an increase to 535 reported cases in March.
