The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has stated that a vaccination campaign is scheduled to begin targeting individuals who have not completed the two doses of the protective vaccine, following the detection of measles cases in the Malé area.

Nine cases of the disease, which was declared eradicated from the Maldives in 2017, have been detected in the Malé area since May 13. In connection with this, HPA is currently working to identify contacts of the infected individuals, test them, and administer vaccines.

HPA stated last night that additional measures are being taken to maintain the status of measles eradication in the Maldives. Accordingly, in addition to the close contacts of those infected, efforts to vaccinate individuals among the general public who have not completed two doses of the vaccine will begin in the coming days.

HPA said that administrative work is currently underway to import the vaccines required for the campaign from abroad. The agency noted that if there is no verifiable documentation of having received the measles vaccine, the safest approach is to complete two doses again.

According to HPA, the vaccine protects against severe complications of the disease and prevents life-threatening outcomes. HPA has specifically advised individuals receiving treatment for chronic illnesses and those with weakened immune systems to remain cautious of this disease.

If symptoms such as a fever accompanied by red rashes appear on the body, the public is advised to seek medical assistance and refrain from going out into public settings.