Dr. Nazla cautions against potential holiday Covid surge

Health Protection Agency (HPA)'s Head of Communicable Disease Control Dr. Nazla Rafeeq has asked to take cautionary measures as the number of Covid-19 cases is likely to rise in the coming weeks with the ongoing school mid-term break and the Eid holidays around the corner.

Dr. Nazla told Mihaaru News that the number of Covid cases in Maldives is likely to surge in the next 2-3 weeks. Therefore, it is important to take cautionary measures now, she said.

While 28 people contracted with Covid have been admitted in hospitals, common flu and other illnesses have also increased significantly.

"Travel is expected to continue due to the ongoing school break and upcoming Eid holidays. Many people who recently went on the Umrah pilgrimage will also be returning next week. We anticipate a continued rise in cases in the coming weeks," Dr. Nazla said.

She said that it can be difficult to distinguish between common flu and the symptoms of Covid-19. Therefore, she advised to consult a doctor before the symptoms become too severe. Dr. Nazla also advised to wear a mask when going out in public if the individual is experiencing any symptoms.

"Early testing and isolation is important especially for high-risk individuals and their care-givers, and those who live together," she said.

"It is wise to start wearing masks when going to crowded places, especially high risk individuals," she said.

"It is difficult to say exactly why there is surge in the spread of illnesses. Currently [in Maldives], no sequencing of these increasing cases has been done. When it is complete, we will know whether or not it is due to a new variant," Dr. Nazla said.

Dr. Nazla stated that some of the individuals who were admitted to hospitals had tested positive for Covid-19 after initially seeking medical attention for another health issue. As a result, individuals admitted to hospitals for other reasons are being tested for the virus, she said.

Dr. Nazla urged individuals to complete their vaccination as the number of cases of common diseases and Covid-19 has been increasing in neighboring countries.

The number of Covid-19 cases has been steadily increasing since March and has now surpassed 100 people contracted with the virus.

According to HPA a total 148 individuals have tested positive for Covid this month, out of which 100 cases were reported from the Greater Malé area, 11 cases from residential islands and 37 cases from industrial islands and resorts.