The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has noted a significant increase in cases of dengue fever and diarrhea last month, calling for urgent hygiene practices and medical care due to holiday travel and returning Umrah pilgrims.

January statistics reveal 647 dengue cases, an increase from 424 in December and a significant rise from 103 in January 2025 and 69 in December 2024.

Diarrhea cases surged to 7792 from 3405 the previous month, whereas common colds increased to 34840 from 29461.

HPA links the surge to school vacations and heightened travel, which drive up respiratory infections, influenza, dengue, and gastrointestinal diseases.

Influenza reversed the trend, falling to 96 cases from 152.

The agency advises vulnerable populations to steer clear of crowded places, focus on personal hygiene, and promptly seek treatment for symptoms, particularly mosquito-related illnesses during high transmission periods.