Maldives among region's highest measles case increases this year

The Maldives has recorded one of the highest increases in measles cases in the region this year, despite having eliminated the disease nine years ago.

Measles re-emerged in the Maldives early last month, and confirmed cases have since risen to 72, according to health authorities.

Regional data indicates that Bangladesh has reported the highest number of measles cases this year, followed by India. The Maldives ranks third, while Sri Lanka and Nepal have reported lower case numbers.

Paediatrician Dr Ahmed Faisal of the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) said expatriates arriving from countries with higher rates of measles transmission should be screened to ensure they have completed the required vaccination before visas are issued.

He also called for continued vigilance in monitoring symptoms among tourists, noting that the initial cases identified this year were linked to people arriving from overseas.

Health authorities have launched a vaccination campaign in response to the outbreak.

According to Dr Faisal, data collected four years ago showed that many people now aged between 14 and 20 had not completed the recommended two-dose measles vaccination schedule.

"This is why the virus spreads when it is imported. It affects those who have not completed both doses," he said.

Dr Faisal said that, apart from four young children, most confirmed cases have been recorded among young adults. He urged people aged between 15 and 35 to ensure they have received both doses of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine.

Measles symptoms include fever, a runny nose, cough, red eyes and skin rashes.

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the eyes, nose or mouth. People who have not received both doses of the MR vaccine are at greater risk of infection.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised members of the public to seek medical attention if they develop a fever accompanied by a skin rash, wear a mask when visiting healthcare facilities, avoid public transport if they are unwell, remain in isolation while awaiting test results if measles is suspected, and avoid crowded places while experiencing symptoms.