HPA issues advisory for Umrah returnees amid increased seasonal infections

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged Maldivians returning from Umrah to take safety precautions amid an increase in flu and viral illnesses typically seen during peak return periods.

The advisory comes as large numbers of pilgrims begin arriving back in the Maldives during the school holidays and the Independence Day break. Health officials note that many returnees often fall ill with fever and respiratory symptoms after travel, and seasonal diseases tend to rise during this period.

According to the HPA, anyone who develops symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath or chest pain within 14 days of returning from Umrah should seek medical attention immediately and inform their doctor of their recent travel history. The agency also stressed that individuals should not take antibiotics without medical advice.

އުމްރާއިން އެނބުރި އައުމަށްފަހު ސަމާލުކަން ދޭންވީ މުހިއްމު ކަންކަން. ???? #Umra2026 pic.twitter.com/eaxCTGOjda

— Health Protection Agency (@HPA_MV) August 2, 2026

Returnees experiencing symptoms have been advised to stay home, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently with soap and water, and wear a mask if they must go outside. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest are recommended for those feeling unwell.

The HPA further advised people to avoid close contact with others, especially children, the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses, and to refrain from visiting crowded places while sick. These measures, the agency said, are essential to reducing the rapid spread of infections among the public.

More than 5,565 people travelled for Umrah through Velana International Airport (VIA) in July last year, according to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the highest number recorded in a single month in recent years.