The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to exercise increased caution following a notable rise in fever-like illnesses reported across the country in recent weeks.

According to the latest figures released by the agency, a total of 3,763 cases of fever-related conditions including diarrhoea, vomiting, and influenza were reported between June 15 and July 5, 2025. The majority of these cases, 2,370 in total, were recorded in the Greater Malé Region.

A significant week-on-week increase has been observed, particularly in cases of diarrhoea and vomiting. National figures rose from 1,109 in Week 25 to 1,547 in Week 27, while in the Malé region, cases grew from 561 to 1,081 over the same period.

Influenza infections have also shown an upward trend, with 239 cases recorded nationwide during the reporting period, 228 of which were from the capital region. Influenza cases in Malé increased from 37 in Week 25 to 106 in Week 27.

The HPA has advised the public to adopt preventative health measures, including regular handwashing with soap, thorough cleaning of raw foods and food preparation areas, and consumption of freshly cooked meals to reduce the risk of infection.

Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever are encouraged to stay hydrated. Schoolchildren showing symptoms should remain at home and only return to school after being symptom-free for at least two days. The public is also advised to avoid crowded spaces where possible.