Street markets and carnivals continue to be held in Male' despite a resurgence of measles, a disease previously eradicated in the Maldives.
The number of confirmed measles cases has nearly doubled since last week, reaching a total of 121. Statistics released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) at the end of last week showed that there were 66 positive cases by the end of June.
As the disease spreads rapidly, a street market has been operating in the Rasfannu area of Male' for about a week, drawing large crowds every night.
Additionally, a major expo was held at Hulhumale' Central Park over the past weekend. The Youth Ministry has also announced a gaming carnival to be held at the Youth Hub tomorrow.
Furthermore, as the World Cup is currently underway, large numbers of people are gathering at various locations across Male' every night to watch the matches.
In the past week alone, 55 new cases were detected. This marks an increase from the 44 cases recorded during the preceding week.
In response to the re-emergence of measles, the HPA has launched a vaccination campaign as a precautionary measure.
The HPA has urged individuals exhibiting symptoms to avoid public gatherings. They have also advised anyone suspected of having measles to remain in isolation until test results are received and to stay home if they show any symptoms of the disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared measles eradicated in the Maldives in 2017. However, cases were subsequently detected in 2020 and again in April 2023, though those outbreaks were successfully brought under control at the time.
The measles vaccine is administered in two doses. The first dose is given at one year of age, followed by a second dose at approximately three years of age. Current vaccination efforts are focused on individuals who have not completed both doses.
Medical professionals emphasize that vaccination is the most critical step in preventing measles. Doctors have urged the public not to neglect vaccinations, noting that while certain diseases have been eradicated within the Maldives, they can still be imported from neighboring countries.
