HPA begins measles vaccination drive for children and healthcare workers

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has begun administering the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine to children under the age of 18 and healthcare workers as part of efforts to contain the recent resurgence of measles in the Maldives.

The HPA announced on Sunday that the vaccination programme would be implemented in phases, with healthcare workers and minors receiving priority during the initial stage.

According to the agency, vaccinations for the priority groups will be administered from Sunday to Tuesday.

In the Greater Malé Area, the vaccine will be available at the Urban Health Care Clinic in Maafannu, Hulhumalé Hospital, Senahiya Hospital and ViliMalé Hospital.

For islands outside the Greater Malé Area, health centres will announce their own vaccination schedules and operating hours.

The HPA has confirmed 22 measles cases since the disease re-emerged. All reported cases have been recorded in the Greater Malé Area.

The agency said measles is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission can also occur when a person touches contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

According to the HPA, common symptoms include:

The agency said people who have not received both doses of the MR vaccine and those with weakened immunity are at greater risk of infection.

The HPA has advised anyone experiencing a fever accompanied by a skin rash to seek medical attention without delay. It also urged people visiting healthcare facilities to wear a mask and avoid using public transport.

Individuals undergoing testing for suspected measles have been advised to remain in isolation until their results are confirmed, while anyone displaying symptoms should avoid visiting crowded public places.