23-Year-Old Dies of Dengue at IGMH as Cases Rise Nationwide

A 23-year-old has died while receiving treatment for dengue at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), according to hospital officials.

Media reports state that the patient was initially treated for dengue at Milandhoo Hospital before being transferred to Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital as his condition worsened. Due to further deterioration, he was later brought to Malé for treatment at IGMH, where the hospital’s media official confirmed his death.

The fatality comes amid a rise in dengue cases across the Maldives. According to the latest statistics released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), more than 100 additional cases were reported within a month.

HPA data shows that 428 dengue cases were recorded in February, increasing to 535 cases in March.

Authorities have urged the public to take preventive measures as cases continue to climb. The HPA advised the use of mosquito repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin (KBR3023 or Icaridin), IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), and 2-undecanone.

The agency also stressed the importance of eliminating stagnant water in small containers, which can serve as mosquito breeding grounds.

Additionally, the public has been advised to keep windows closed and avoid outdoor exposure during dusk and dawn hours, when mosquitoes are most active.