Diarrhoea and vomiting outbreak reported in Malé region

An outbreak of gastroenteritis has been reported across the Greater Malé Area, with increasing numbers of people seeking treatment for diarrhoea and vomiting.

Reports indicate that both children and adults have been affected. Patients have been visiting clinics and hospitals with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea and weakness.

One person who contracted the illness said the symptoms developed suddenly.

"Adults are experiencing sudden, involuntary bowel movements without warning. The illness leaves you feeling extremely weak and deteriorates your condition very quickly," the individual said.

A similar outbreak of gastroenteritis was reported in February.

In previous public health advisories, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) urged people with diarrhoea to drink plenty of fluids, including water, oral rehydration salts (ORS) and clear soups, to prevent dehydration.

The agency also advised the public to:

With schools currently closed for the holiday, the HPA has urged the public to maintain good personal hygiene to reduce the spread of illness.

The agency also reminded the public that measles cases continue to be monitored in the Greater Malé Area.

The HPA advised anyone experiencing fever with a rash or symptoms consistent with measles to avoid crowded places. People tested for suspected measles have also been advised to remain at home until their results are confirmed.

The agency further recommended regular hand hygiene and the use of mosquito repellent to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.