The Health Protection Agency (HPA) of Maldives has appealed for the public to vaccinate against the ongoing influenza outbreak.

Speaking on RaajjeTV's "FalaSuruhuee" program, HPA's epidemiologist, Dr Ibrahim Afzal explained that influenza and dengue fever are very different, and therefore have different methods for prevention.

According to Dr.Afzal, HPA has undertaken awareness efforts against influenza due to its highly infectious nature and the high risk for further health complications.

As such, Dr.Afzal noted that despite HPA's efforts, the public does not seem to be heeding the recommended precautions.

Highlighting that many people flock to vaccinate after an outbreak, Dr. Afzal stated that this is not the recommended procedure. He stressed that vaccinations must be taken before an outbreak, not during, as it takes approximately two weeks for the vaccine to become effective.

Dr Afzal further stated that the HPA is working towards making vaccination accessible all over the Maldives. Likewise, they are regularly monitoring for vaccine availability in every region of the country.