The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to maintain cleanliness and good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of communicable diseases during the holiday period.
HPA said that increased passenger movement during the holidays contributes to the rapid spread of illnesses, including influenza and dengue. The agency noted that the common cold and diarrhoea are also prevalent during this time. In addition, rising cases of the common cold have been reported among travellers returning from Umrah.
According to HPA data, reported dengue cases increased towards the end of 2025, with 413 cases recorded in December compared to 382 cases in November. This represents a significant rise compared to 2024, when 70 dengue cases were reported in December and 140 cases in November.
The agency said that cases of the common cold and influenza are also spreading. Influenza cases are currently on the rise, although overall figures remain lower than in the previous year. A total of 28,619 influenza cases were reported in December, compared to 32,859 cases in November. Diarrhoea cases have also declined, with 2,931 cases reported in December, down from 4,102 cases in November. Out of the 1,270 influenza-positive cases reported in 2025, 152 cases were recorded in December.
HPA has urged the public to remain vigilant for dengue symptoms and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are present. Speaking on a PSM News programme, HPA Public Health Coordinator Fathimath Fauza Ibrahim warned residents to remain cautious of mosquitoes and stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness and good hygiene.
The agency has also advised individuals who are unwell to self-isolate until they have fully recovered, regardless of the illness. Doctors have further recommended wearing masks in public spaces to help prevent the further spread of disease.