Maldives launched a nationwide mosquito control campaign on Saturday, as it battles a rise in mosquito-borne diseases including dengue and filariasis.

The campaign, titled ‘Madhirin Rakkaa’ or ‘Safe from Mosquitos’, was launched by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef in an event held at the Male’ City Council’s Public Works Office on Saturday morning.

The campaign was launched simultaneously in islands across the Maldives.

Speaking at the launch event, VP Hussain called to make the cleanup of mosquito breeding grounds a continuous effort.

He said that the launch of such a campaign by government companies and civic groups offers relief to the public, amid concern over the emergence of cases of filariasis - a disease which was eradicated from Maldives in 2016.

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef takes part in 'Madhiri Rakka' campaign on December 30, 2023. (Photo/President's Office)

“Public cooperation is crucial in this situation. We have shown this throughout the years. I therefore hope to see all Maldivian citizens cooperate in this,” he said.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Abdulla Khaleel, who also took part in the event, said that he does not wish to see the reemergence of dangerous diseases that Maldives has successfully eradicated in the past.

He, too, urged everyone to do their civil duty in taking protective measures against the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

At the event, VP Hussain and other government ministers joined scores of employees of government companies in the cleanup of mosquito breeding grounds in Male’ City.

Urbanco held a similar event in suburban Hulhumale’.