Gov’t Opens Flu Clinics for Returning Hajj Pilgrims

The Health Ministry has inaugurated flu clinics in the greater Malé area to cater to Maldivian pilgrims returning from the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. 

The first group of pilgrims arrived in Malé on June 24, with additional groups expected on Monday and the final group on July 4.

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The Health Ministry announced that flu clinics have been established at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Malé City, as well as in Hulhumalé and Vilimalé. These clinics aim to provide pilgrims exhibiting flu symptoms with safe and convenient access to medical care, as well as to mitigate the risk of a flu and viral fever outbreak.

The Ministry expressed readiness to open additional flu clinics in other areas of the country should there be an increase in flu and viral fever cases. Pilgrims showing flu symptoms are urged to seek medical attention at these specialised clinics promptly to help control the spread of illness.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has previously advised the public to limit the number of visitors at the airport to welcome returning pilgrims. The agency also recommended avoiding crowds and wearing masks at the airport and on public transport, including taxis, buses, and ferries.

Additionally, IGMH, the main government hospital, has requested the public to restrict visits to the hospital to essential purposes only.

This year, 1,150 Maldivians travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, including 50 individuals who received government sponsorship.