Measles cases rise to 22 following 2 new infections

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed two additional cases of measles, bringing the total number of infections recorded in the current outbreak to 22.

Measles, which was declared eradicated in the Maldives in 2017, re-emerged earlier this year. Since the first cases were identified, the number of confirmed infections has continued to increase.

In an update, the HPA urged members of the public to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with the disease.

The agency advised anyone experiencing a high fever accompanied by a skin rash to visit a healthcare facility without delay.

The HPA also instructed individuals seeking treatment for suspected measles to wear a mask and avoid using public transport when travelling to healthcare facilities.

People undergoing testing for measles have been advised to remain in isolation until laboratory results are received.

The agency further urged anyone displaying symptoms to avoid crowded public places in order to reduce the risk of transmission.

Although measles had been eliminated in the Maldives, a small number of cases were detected in 2023. Health authorities were able to contain that outbreak without widespread transmission.

As part of ongoing prevention measures, the HPA has called on the public to ensure they have received both doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

The agency has also been administering vaccinations to healthcare workers as part of efforts to limit the spread of the disease.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation and conduct contact tracing and surveillance activities in response to the outbreak.