Minister of Health Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has underscored the critical importance of controlling the spread of debilitating diseases like chikungunya and dengue in the Maldives.
Addressing media representatives at the Ministry of Health, Minister Khaleel reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to implementing comprehensive measures to curb the transmission of these diseases. He emphasised the indispensable role of collaborative efforts between the government and private sector in combatting these health threats. Minister Khaleel particularly emphasised the imperative of eradicating mosquito breeding grounds and maintaining hygienic living environments to prevent outbreaks.
Moreover, Minister Khaleel highlighted the government's proactive stance in raising awareness among foreign workers residing in the Maldives. Tailored programs, delivered in their native languages, are being deployed across various atolls and in the capital city of Male', ensuring widespread understanding of preventive measures.
Government initiatives to curb the spread of dengue and chikungunya include intensive fogging operations and the systematic destruction of mosquito breeding sites in Male' and surrounding islands. Recent statistics from the health ministry reveal a total of 747 reported cases of dengue and 389 cases of chikungunya as of May 11 this year. Both diseases are transmitted by the Aedes mosquito.