HPA Launches Campaign to Eliminate Mosquitoes at Construction Sites Amid Dengue Rise

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has launched a nationwide campaign targeting mosquito breeding at construction sites as dengue cases continue to rise across the Maldives.

The initiative is being conducted in collaboration with the Maldives Red Crescent, Hulhumalé Hospital, Villimalé Hospital, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and the Malé City Council.

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The campaign aims to raise awareness of mosquito breeding sites across the Greater Malé region, particularly in construction areas where stagnant water can accumulate unnoticed. The agency has called for public cooperation, urging households and workplaces to regularly remove standing water to help reduce the spread of dengue.

HPA reported that dengue cases recorded in March increased significantly compared to February. Earlier in the week, a 23-year-old man from Sh. Milandhoo died from dengue fever.

The agency advised that although the Aedes mosquito typically bites during the day, precautions should be taken at all times.

HPA highlighted that any clean water source can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and stressed the importance of cleaning water-collecting items in homes and surrounding areas at least once a week. The agency noted that mosquito eggs can survive for more than six months even after water has been removed, making thorough cleaning essential.

The agency emphasised that preventing dengue requires both individual and collective responsibility, adding that sustained cleaning efforts in partnership with local councils and relevant institutions remain the most effective way to control the spread of the disease.