The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged Hajj pilgrims returning to the Maldives to take precautions and monitor their health amid an increase in flu cases among pilgrims.

Speaking to State media, HPA Director of Public Health Sana Saleem said several infectious diseases have increased since the beginning of the year, including dengue fever and seasonal flu.

She advised returning pilgrims to closely monitor their health for 14 days after arrival, even if they do not show any immediate symptoms of illness.

Sana said the HPA is working with the medical team accompanying Maldivian pilgrims to assess the prevalence of illnesses among those returning from Hajj. She noted that many pilgrims are elderly and therefore more vulnerable to infection and complications.

The HPA also advised pilgrims to avoid close contact with individuals who may be at greater risk of severe illness, including pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

The first group of Maldivian pilgrims returned home on Friday after completing the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

The remaining pilgrims are expected to arrive in three groups on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.