The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced plans to launch a vaccination campaign targeting individuals who have not completed the required two doses of the measles vaccine.
Although the Maldives was declared measles-free in 2017, health authorities have confirmed nine positive cases of the disease so far this year.
HPA said vaccination efforts are currently focused on household members and close contacts of confirmed cases. The agency added that work is underway to bring additional vaccine supplies into the country to expand immunisation coverage to members of the public who have not received both recommended doses.
Health officials have also reminded the public to be aware of common measles symptoms, which include fever, runny nose, coughing and red eyes. A red skin rash is another key sign of the disease.
According to HPA, the rash typically appears first on the face and neck before spreading to the chest, back, arms and legs.
The agency has urged anyone experiencing symptoms associated with measles to seek medical attention without delay.
