The Health Protection Agency (HPA) on Tuesday warned the general public to be cautious as cases of diarrhea are increasing in the nation.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the agency notes that, as recorded in previous years, a spread of diarrhea has been recorded this year during the current time period, highlighting that cases are seen highest in capital city Male’.

Diarrhea is usually caused by food or a change in diet. The statement by HPA notes several ways to prevent diarrhea such as drinking safe and clean water, thoroughly washing one’s hands after using the lavatory as well as after coming home. More ways include being cautious of what you eat and how you store your food. As such, the HPA advices the public to consume fresh food, to not keep food out in the open as well as to refrigerate cooked food before it goes bad.

Symptoms of diarrhea include abdominal cramps, fever, continual crying in toddlers, nausea, blood in stool or bile and bloating among several others.

The agency further advised the public to consult a doctor immediately if one experienced any of the aforementioned symptoms.