The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has issued a public health advisory following a fire ravaging the Housing Ministry Building on Ameenee Magu, Male’.
The fire broke out on Thursday morning and remains uncontrolled. While the Maldives National Defense Force’s Fire and Rescue are active at the site, surrounding buildings have been evacuated for safety. Efforts are ongoing to prevent the fire from spreading further.
In the advisory, HPA urged the public to avoid the affected area unless absolutely necessary. Those in the area are urged to cover their mouth and nose properly, while residents in nearby areas are advised to keep the doors and windows tightly shut to block smoke.
HPA warned to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, and dizziness are experienced, adding that smoke from the fire poses more risk to those with heart conditions and respiratory issues.
