The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported a significant increase in measles cases across the Maldives, with 17 new infections identified over the past week alone. This spike marks a notable rise from the 13 cases recorded during the previous seven-day period.

Since the current outbreak was first identified in May 2026, the total number of confirmed measles cases in the country has risen to 216. Health authorities have been monitoring the steady climb in transmissions as the virus continues to spread within the community.

In response to the growing number of infections, the Ministry of Health has intensified its national vaccination drive. The campaign specifically targets individuals who have not yet completed the mandatory two-dose measles vaccine regimen. This public health initiative was recently bolstered by a significant donation of vaccine doses from the Government of India.

Latest data from the HPA indicates that 14,701 individuals have been vaccinated since the start of the emergency response efforts. Health experts emphasize that measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by the measles virus. It is estimated that up to 90% of non-immune people living with an infected person will catch the virus.

Medical professionals warn that the contagious period begins four to five days before the characteristic rash appears and lasts until four to five days after its onset, making early detection and isolation critical to controlling the outbreak.