May Records Highest Number of Flu Cases Reported This Year, HPA Data Shows

Acute respiratory infections, commonly referred to as flu and common cold cases, reached their highest monthly level of the year in May, according to the latest figures released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

The HPA reported 39,420 cases in May 2026, the highest monthly total recorded so far this year and surpassing January’s figure of 35,693 cases.

advertisement

According to the agency’s latest Acute Respiratory Infection Report, a total of 145,154 cases were recorded nationwide between January and May. Of these, 69,021 cases were reported from the Greater Malé area and 76,133 from the atolls.

Monthly figures show 35,693 cases were reported in January, followed by 25,010 in February, 20,810 in March and 24,221 in April before surging to 39,420 in May.

Despite May recording the highest monthly total of the year, the cumulative number of cases reported during the first five months of 2026 remains lower than the same period last year. Between January and May 2025, the HPA recorded 158,009 cases, compared with 145,154 this year.

Data from the past two weeks indicate that the Greater Malé area recorded the highest number of infections, with 6,793 cases. Addu City followed with 1,050 cases, while Raa Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll and Fuvahmulah City recorded 606, 583 and 535 cases respectively.

At island level, Malé, Hulhumalé and Vilimalé accounted for the highest number of reported infections, with 3,835 cases recorded over the two-week period. Addu City recorded 2,616 cases, while Fuvahmulah City reported 1,043 cases.

Other locations among the most affected were H.Dh. Kulhudhuffushi, Lh. Naifaru, B. Eydhafushi, K. Maafushi, R. Maduvvari, F. Nilandhoo and A.Dh. Maamigili.

The figures were published in the HPA’s latest report covering acute respiratory infections reported up to the end of May 2026.

The Health Protection Agency has also previously advised the public to take heightened precautions during seasonal transitions, including the removal of stagnant freshwater sources to reduce mosquito breeding, and maintaining hygiene and isolation practices when experiencing flu-like symptoms to help limit the spread of infections.

The increase in cases comes as the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as the Hulhangu Monsoon, has begun affecting parts of the Maldives, according to the Maldives Meteorological Service. The rainy season, which typically runs from May to November, is often associated with a rise in seasonal illnesses across the country.

The onset of the monsoon also coincided with preparations for the Eid al-Adha holiday period, which began on May 21 for the public sector and continued through the end of the holiday break. The period is typically marked by increased domestic and international travel, with both Maldivians and expatriate workers travelling to celebrate Eid.