The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to take precautionary measures as dengue fever cases continue to increase in the Maldives.

Dengue fever is transmitted when an Aedes mosquito bites an infected person and then bites another individual.

The HPA stated yesterday that it has observed an increasing trend in the spread of dengue fever. Therefore, efforts must be made to protect against mosquitoes and reduce their population.

As the HPA noted the increase in dengue fever cases, statistics from the agency show that over 4,400 cases have been reported since October.

In September of this year, an additional 20 cases of dengue fever were reported. The HPA highlighted that the number of people seeking treatment for dengue fever has increased across all atolls of the Maldives.

The HPA advised that if one contracts dengue fever, it is important to rest extensively and increase fluid intake. The agency also appealed to consume nutritious food and to use only Panadol or Paracetamol for fever and body aches, avoiding other medications.

To prevent such incidents, HDC, in collaboration with relevant authorities, is conducting mosquito fogging operations in numerous areas of Hulhumalé, including parks, mosque vicinities, neighborhoods, and many parts of Phase One.