HPA Reports Common Cold Spikes During Ramadan

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported a significant increase in common cold cases during the first week of Ramadan. 

Speaking at a program aired by PSM on Saturday, Fathimath Ana, HPA’s Public Health Coordinator, highlighted a surge in cases of common cold, viral fever, and other contagious diseases.

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Ana attributed the rise in contagious diseases to the increased public gatherings and visitations typical of Ramadan. She noted that during this period, locals often frequent public venues such as restaurants and the homes of relatives for iftars.

In response to the uptick in cases, HPA is taking proactive measures to mitigate the spread of contagious diseases. Ana emphasised the importance of public awareness and information dissemination. “Our primary focus right now is to alert the public and disseminate information,” she stated, highlighting various communication channels such as social media platforms, Viber community groups, Twitter, and Facebook used to reach out to the public.

Ana stressed the significance of timely information dissemination in reducing future cases. She advised individuals with viral fever or cold symptoms to refrain from visiting public venues and encouraged the practice of good hygiene, including regular hand washing and wearing face masks.

Furthermore, Ana recommended increased sanitization and hand hygiene for individuals experiencing fever or cold symptoms. She advised employees in cafes and restaurants to stay home for 48 hours if they display any symptoms.

The surge in common cold and viral fever cases follows HPA’s recent statistical update, which reported a reduction in dengue fever, cold, influenza, and diarrhea cases in February.