Dengue cases rising: HPA urges caution

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has issued a renewed public advisory as dengue fever cases continue to rise across the Maldives, urging residents to take proactive steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate breeding sites.

According to HPA statistics, 342 dengue cases were reported in October, marking a steady increase from 260 cases in September and 194 in July. The cumulative total since last October has surpassed 4,400 cases, with the highest numbers recorded in the Greater Male' Region, Raa Atoll, Kaafu Atoll, and Alif Alif Atoll.

Dengue fever is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which becomes infectious after biting a person already carrying the virus. The mosquito is most active during daylight hours, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.

Prevention tips from HPA and global health guidelines:

Use repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE)

Wear long sleeves and pants during the day, especially in mosquito-prone areas

Install mosquito screens on windows and doors, and keep them closed during peak mosquito hours

Empty and scrub water-holding containers weekly, including buckets, flower pots, and tanks

Raise or overflow tanks and tree bases to prevent water stagnation

Clean thoroughly: mosquito eggs can survive up to six months even in dry containers

The HPA emphasized that clean water is the preferred breeding ground for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Even small amounts of water, in bottle caps or plant saucers, can support mosquito larvae.

Avoid medications other than paracetamol for fever and body aches

Seek medical care if symptoms worsen, especially if experiencing bleeding, vomiting, or severe fatigue

The agency also encouraged communities to recycle waste and reduce environmental clutter that can trap rainwater. Public awareness campaigns and sanitation drives are ongoing in high-risk areas.

“Stay safe, stay dengue-free,” the HPA said in its latest advisory.