Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised Maldivian travelers to take precautions over a new COVID-19 variant.
Cases of the new JN.1 variant have been detected in many countries. Cases have also been reported in Kerela, India, which is a popular travel destination for Maldivians.
HPA highlighted that common colds, viral fever and respiratory infections are expected to increase as many Maldivians will travel to different parts of the country or abroad for the holidays or Umrah pilgrimage. As such, the health agency urged travelers to take precautions including covering one's mouth and nose with a cloth or tissue when coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues and other items safely in the trash after use. Individuals coughing frequently should wear a mask to cover their mouth and nose.
Additionally, travelers are asked to pay attention to general hygiene and especially, hand washing with soap and avoid crowded places if they have a cold or fever. HPA also urged them to avoid contact with children if they have such symptoms and to have as few people as possible accompany them to the doctor. The agency stated that children, the elderly and pregnant women should not visit patients and should not go to hospital unless absolutely necessary.
Furthermore, HPA stated that individuals should seek immediate medical attention if the fever persists for a long time and isolate themselves. The agency urged the elderly and individuals on treatment for multiple diseases to get the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, the elderly, children under five years of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should get the Influenza vaccine.
HPA also shared home remedies for colds and fever including the use of plenty of fluids, rest, consuming drinks such as lemon juice/tea, ginger tea and honey. The agency also advised such individuals to consult a doctor if they are attempting to take any medication other than paracetamol.
Moreover, HPA advised individuals to take precautions against mosquito bites and to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. The agency also urged the public to eat different types of food during the holidays and to pay attention to food hygiene.