Two More Test Positive for Measles in Malé, Total Cases Rise to 11

News

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed that two additional individuals have tested positive for measles (himabihi) in the Greater Malé area over the past week, bringing the total number of recorded cases in the country to 11.

In response to the growing cluster, public health officials are aggressively implementing containment measures. Intensive contact tracing is currently underway, with HPA confirming that the number of identified direct contacts has risen to 152. Mobile health teams are actively monitoring these individuals and collecting samples from anyone displaying symptoms.

To prevent further transmission within healthcare settings, major hospitals in the capital have activated emergency response protocols in coordination with the HPA. Specialized, isolated triage desks have been set up at hospital entrances to fast-track and safely manage suspected cases away from general waiting areas.

High Transmission Risks

Public health experts warn that measles is an exceptionally contagious airborne disease that spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets. Epidemiological data indicates that measles has a significantly higher transmission rate than other global infectious diseases, including COVID-19, Ebola, tuberculosis (TB), and seasonal influenza.

The HPA noted that the current local spike aligns with sharp increases in measles outbreaks across neighboring countries frequently visited by Maldivian travelers, particularly India and Bangladesh. The agency strongly advises the public to ensure their MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccination status is up to date and to seek immediate medical attention at designated hospital desks if they experience a high fever accompanied by a distinct red rash.