Several migrant workers in Kulhudhuffushi have tested positive for filariasis - a disease eradicated from the Maldives in 2016.
A hospital official from Kulhudhuffushi told Adhadhu that the cases were found during a migrant health camp conducted to mark World AIDS Day.
The screening program was conducted from December 1-2 in Kulhudhuffushi and 16 foreigners tested positive for filaria, the official said.
"The screening program revealed that there were filariasis cases. There were 16 cases that tested positive at the screening stage," the official said.
However, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) later issued a statement saying that 17 cases of filariasis were found in Kulhudhuffushi.
The official said further tests are being conducted to confirm the presence of the disease. The tests will be completed tonight, he said.
Filariasis is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) certified Maldives as having eradicated the disease.
The last case of filaria was reported in 2004 in Laamu atoll Fonadhoo. The residents were given medicine for five years. Since 2008, no cases have been reported.
Filariasis is a mosquito-borne, contagious disease.
