Several Infectious Diseases Surged in March, Reveals HPA

According to the latest data released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), cases of the four most common infectious diseases – diarrhoea, common cold, viral fever and dengue fever – surged compared to the previous month.

Key Findings:

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– Diarrhea and Vomiting: Reports of diarrhoea and vomiting saw a notable uptick in March, with 5,428 cases recorded compared to 5,149 cases in February, marking a 5.4% increase.

– Common Cold: The number of reported cases of the common cold rose sharply, reaching 33,637 cases in March, compared to 29,184 cases in February, representing a 15.3% increase.

Viral Fever: The number of viral fever witnessed a substantial surge, with 11,760 reported cases in March compared to 8,871 cases in February, indicating a significant 32.6% increase.

– Dengue Fever: Despite a relatively modest increase, dengue fever cases rose from 116 in February to 119 in March, highlighting ongoing concerns about vector-borne diseases.

Regional Impact

The rise in infectious diseases is not confined to a specific region. Several atolls, including Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Noonu, Kaafu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Laamu, Gnaviyani, and Seenu, report a surge in cases of dengue fever. Notably, common colds have become increasingly prevalent in many atolls.

Health Recommendations

Health authorities are urging the public to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including:

– Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.

– Adhering to recommended vaccination schedules to protect against preventable diseases.

– Seeking medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms of infectious diseases, such as fever, cough, or diarrhoea.