Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised testing for COVID and influenza in N. Landhoo due to a recent spike in cases of fever.
An official from the Landhoo Health Centre told Mihaaru that the number of patients consulting doctors has seen an unprecedented rise after Hajj day.
Previously, there was an average of 10 patients per day, but the number has now crossed 30, the official said, adding that the number of in-patient cases has also seen a significant increase.
Landhoo School is also seeing low attendance after classes resumed following eid holidays, with many students down with the flu.
Prevalent symptoms reported by patients in Landhoo include high fever, cough and headaches.
With low attendance, the Health Centre sought permission to close down school from the HPA. HPA, however, advised to first conduct tests to identify the disease before reaching a decision on school closure, the official said.
They further said that the health centre will soon begin taking samples for COVID and influenza testing, in accordance with HPA guidance.
A parent from Landhoo said that Landhoo School, which has 200 students enrolled, saw attendance from just 150 students yesterday.
Ahead of the eid holidays, HPA issued an advisory due to the recent rise in influenza and viral fever cases, as well as the spread of measles in the Male' area.
Advice from HPA to reduce spread of diseases
- To avoid going out or participating in public gatherings if experiencing symptom of respiratory diseases or fever.
- Seek swift medical attention if symptoms are worsening, and to wear masks and avoid public transport when visiting hospitals for treatment.
- In the instance that symptoms of measles are observed, undergo tests and isolate even until results are received.
- Wear masks when wearing crowded places, including ferry terminals and airport terminals, as well as when using public transport.
- Frequently wash hands with soap and use sanitizer.
- To prevent contraction of diseases and subsequent complications, complete vaccination doses for applicable diseases.
- Use mosquito-repellent lotions or sprays and wear loose clothing that covers most of the body to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Authorities also advise installing netting on windows and doors, and removing any potential breeding sites around the home.
