The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has revealed that over 2,900 cases of chickenpox have been reported in Maldives so far this year.

HPA revealed that out of 2,977 reported cases of chickenpox so far, 1,506 were from Malé, while 1,471 cases were reported from other atolls.

Additionally, 11 cases of chickenpox have been reported in K. Gulhi this month, with two patients currently receiving further treatment at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).

Chickenpox is a viral disease characterised by symptoms such as fatigue, runny nose, and skin rashes. The disease is spread through the respiratory tract when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by direct contact with the rash or contaminated items such as towels and clothing.

HPA has advised avoiding close contact with infected individuals, isolating them from others in the household, and separating their clothes and towels until the disease subsides. HPA has also recommended vaccination as a preventive measure.

According to HPA, cases of chickenpox are reported from various parts of the Maldives each year.