An expatriate worker with Filariasis has been discovered in Malé City today.
According to a statement issued by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), expatriates in the Malé region, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu were tested for filariasis on Friday and Saturday.
During the screening, additional positive cases were detected.
Cases of Filariasis, which had previously been eradicated from the Maldives, have reappeared in Haa Dhaalu atoll, Kulhudhuffushi. Since then, Filariasis has been detected in 25 expatriates from the island, one from Hulhumalé, and one from Malé.
"They are entirely of Indian and Bangladeshi origin," HPA said.
A total of 89 people were tested in Malé, Hulhumalé, Villimalé, and Thilafushi. Seven cases of filariasis have been reported, including five from Hulhumalé, one from Gulhifalhu, and one from Malé.
Kulhudhuffushi reported 25 cases out of 439 people tested so far. A total of 155 Maldivians were tested on the island, but no confirmed cases have been reported among them.
The total number of Filariasis cases in the Malé area and Kulhudhuffushi has risen to 32.
HPA said that medical treatment for all patients diagnosed with Filariasis will be conducted under the supervision of the agency. So far, all patients diagnosed with filariasis have been provided with medication.
"Testing for Filariasis is being expanded to include both locals and foreigners. The agency strongly urges all citizens and relevant agencies, [including companies employing foreign workers], to cooperate in the screening process," the statement said.
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