Health Protection Agency (HPA) has said today that as of now, over 140 persons have tested positive for measles in the country this year.
Last week alone, 23 new cases were detected, HPA said. With this, the total number of cases this year has now reached 144.
The previous week, 55 new cases of measles were reported.
HPA has initiated a dedicated measles vaccination program as well, with 7,100 persons vaccinated since the launch of the initiative.
Measles was officially eradicated from the Maldives in 2017. However, there were a number of isolated cases since then usually detected amongst the expatriate population. This year, the disease is also spreading amongst locals.
Preventive measures
- Consult a doctor without delay if suffering from a fever and red rash. When visiting the hospital, ensure to wear a mask and to avoid public transport.
- If tested for measles, self-isolate until the results are received.
- If experiencing measles symptoms, avoid crowds and isolate.
