Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced that no new measles cases were detected in the past week.
Measles started spreading in the Maldives in May this year, with new cases emerging each week since.
HPA said that the numbers had been gradually decreasing, with no patients testing positive for measles in the past week.
The last update prior to this reported five new cases.
While zero cases were recorded last week, HPA said that a total of 287 cases had been detected since January this year.
As of now, 16,689 vaccinations have been given out to prevent the disease under a special drive initiated this year.
HPA urged persons who are unsure of their vaccination status to visit the centres and get vaccinated as a precaution.
The agency also urged persons who have come in contact with a measles patient to get two doses of the vaccine without delay.
In the case of those who undergo testing for measles, HPA urges them to isolate until results are received, to avoid crowds, and to use masks when visiting health facilities for treatment.
WHO declared that measles had been eradicated in Maldives in 2017. However, isolated cases were detected even after this, usually amongst expatriates. This year, the disease spread within the local population as well, at a much higher rate.
Precautionary measures
- Seek medical care without delay if a fever and red rash is detected.
- When visiting the hospital under these circumstances, wear masks and avoid using public transport.
- If measles is suspected and a subsequent test is taken, isolate until the results are received.
- If symptoms of measles are observed, avoid crowded places.
