Healthcare workers receive measles vaccinations as cases rise
Measles was previously eliminated in the Maldives. However, the disease has recently reappeared, with 20 confirmed cases recorded so far.
Health authorities have begun administering measles vaccinations to healthcare workers following the re-emergence of the disease in the Malé area.
According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), 1,118 frontline healthcare workers have already received an additional dose of the vaccine as part of efforts to reduce the risk of infection among medical personnel.
The vaccination programme covers doctors, nurses and healthcare support staff, who face a higher risk of exposure during outbreaks.
Measles was previously eliminated in the Maldives. However, the disease has recently reappeared, with 20 confirmed cases recorded so far.
Health authorities generally prioritise healthcare workers for vaccination during disease outbreaks due to the nature of their work and the increased likelihood of contact with infected individuals.
The HPA said protection against measles is normally provided through two doses of the MR (Measles-Rubella) and MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccines administered under the national immunisation programme.
The agency has advised individuals who do not have records confirming their vaccination status to complete the two-dose vaccination series.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and implement measures aimed at limiting further transmission of the disease.
