Measles cases in the Greater Male' Area rise to 121
8 ޖުލައި 2026 | ބުދަ 07:15The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported that measles cases in the Greater Male' area have risen to 121, with the majority of infections identified among Maldivian adults over the age of 18. Despite the Maldives previously being certified as measles-free, the country has seen a daily increase in cases since last month, prompting authorities to vaccinate over 5,000 individuals in an effort to contain the outbreak. Health officials continue to urge the public to seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit any symptoms of the disease.
Following the detection of two measles cases in Malé, despite the Maldives being classified as a measles-free country, authorities are advising anyone exhibiting symptoms—particularly red rashes—to seek medical consultation immediately. | RaajjeMV
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced a surge in measles cases within the Greater Male' Area, with 55 new infections reported in the past week alone.
According to statistics released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) on Tuesday, 55 new cases have been reported, bringing the total number of infections in the Greater Male' Area to 121. The agency noted that the majority of those infected are Maldivians, with the highest prevalence observed among individuals over the age of 18.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is collaborating with relevant authorities to implement special measures to control the spread of the disease. As part of these efforts, a vaccination program has been launched targeting children under the age of 18 and healthcare workers. According to HPA statistics, 5,495 individuals have been vaccinated against measles to date.
The Maldives was certified as a measles-free country by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017. However, following the detection of several cases in 2023, the number of infections has been steadily increasing since early last month.
To control the spread of the disease, health experts advise seeking immediate medical attention upon the onset of symptoms and urge those who are not fully vaccinated to complete their vaccination as soon as possible.
