Hospitals in the Male’ region are experiencing very high patient volumes due to a rise in cases of diarrhea and vomiting.

The primary government hospital, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), informed Sun on Tuesday that it has noticed an increase in flu-related consultations for a while. Consequently, the hospital established a specialized flu clinic on December 18. Nonetheless, the hospital was unable to determine the exact time when illnesses increased.

Hulhumale’ Hospital reported an increase in flu-related consultations, along with a rise in cases of diarrhea and vomiting since schools resumed for the new academic year last week.

The hospital specifically observed a rise in pediatric patients.

The heavy congestion in government hospitals consistently leads to grievances about extended waits and postponed services.

During the school break, thousands of Maldivians made their way to Saudi Arabia to undertake the Umrah pilgrimage. A surge in illnesses occurs whenever pilgrims come back.

Based on December's health data, 28,610 individuals sought treatment for flu and 2,931 individuals sought treatment for diarrhea.

Health professionals have consistently encouraged the public to adopt preventive strategies during times of heightened illness, such as using masks and regularly cleaning hands.