Six more filariasis cases have been reported in Kulhudhuffushi City, raising the total to 25 cases.
Earlier in December, foreign workers tested positive for filariasis during the screening campaign conducted in Kulhudhuffushi. The infected individuals came from regions where filariasis is already endemic.
The Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital is conducting further screenings of foreign workers in the city on the recommendation of the Health Protection Agency (HPA). So far, 434 individuals have been screened and 25 foreign workers have tested positive for filariasis.
HPA has decided to form a taskforce to reduce the spread of filariasis and increase public awareness. HPA stated that the awareness campaign will include conducting information sessions for expatriates and providing information to journalists, health workers in Male' and the atolls as well employees of the Ministry of Health. The screening campaign has also been expanded to more areas while HPA continues to take random samples in Kulhudhuffushi.
Furthermore, posters, videos and photos will be prepared in languages that expatriates can understand to disseminate information. In addition, a guideline on filariasis will be formulated and surveillance and reporting mechanisms will be further strengthened.
HPA is also conducting a programme to control mosquito populations. The programme aims to remove mosquito breeding grounds and clean such areas.