Dengue, flu, and diarrhea cases see sharp spike in July and August

Maldives saw a significant increase in dengue, flu and diarrhea cases by end of this year’s August, compared to the same period last year, according to Health Protection Agency (HPA).

According to the information released by HPA, 21 cases of dengue were reported in July 2021, and nine in August 2021.

In 2022, 322 cases of dengue were recording in July alone, and 268 in August.

HPA has advised people to take protective measures to avoid mosquito bites, including using mosquito repellants such as lotions and sprays, keeping doors and windows closed at dawn and at sunset, and destroy mosquito breeding grounds.

The agency said that dengue patients need rest, liquids and can take paracetamol at home, but advised them to seek medical treatment is the fever persists for more than three days, or if the patient is unable to take in liquid or is suffering severe fatigue.

As for flu cases, 3,088 cases of flu were recorded in July 2021, and 16,222 in August 2021.

In 2022, 27,553 cases of flu were recorded in July alone, and 25,713 in August.

HPA advised people with flu to cover nose and mouth with a tissue or handkerchief while sneezing or coughing, and practice good hygiene including frequent handwashing.

2022 also saw 3,103 cases of diarrhea in July and 3,505 in August.

All three illnesses saw significant spikes compared to last year.