Health Protection Agency has revealed that 20 new cases of measles were detected over the past week, taking the total number of cases to 186. 

The first case of measles this time was detected in early June. Measles had earlier been declared eradicated from the Maldives. 

HPA stated that the 20 cases recorded last week were all from the Male' region. 

HPA has also launched a special vaccination program, under which 12,000 individuals have been vaccinated to date. 

HPA urges all individuals who are not certain that they have received two doses of the measles vaccines to visit the vaccination centre to complete the doses. 

If a person comes into contact with a measles patient, they are advised to visit the Urban Primary Health Care Centre of Hulhumale' Hospital, where they can get vaccinated. 

Vaccination services will also be available at Male' area hospitals and health centres in the atolls at specific times. 

If measles symptoms such as a red rash and fever are observed, urgent medical care is advised. When visiting the hospital under these circumstances, HPA urges to wear a mask and avoid public transportation. 

Once a measles test is done, HPA advises individuals to self-isolate until the results are received.