ADK Warns of Measles Outbreak in Maldives as Five Cases Confirmed

ADK Hospital has warned of a measles outbreak in the Maldives after the Health Protection Agency confirmed five cases in the country so far this year, including two new infections detected this week. 

According to ADK Hospital, investigations are ongoing to determine where the infected individuals contracted the virus, while contact tracing and vaccination of close contacts are being carried out in line with national health protocols.

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The hospital noted that two of the five confirmed cases this year were classified as imported infections. It also warned that measles cases have been increasing globally in recent months, including in countries within the region.

A measles outbreak has been reported in the Maldives. Awareness, vaccination, and early action are key to protecting yourself and those around you.

If you develop symptoms or suspect measles, please contact us before visiting so we can guide you on the safest way to seek care.… pic.twitter.com/EDNPUrZJLi— ADK Hospital (@ADKHospital) May 16, 2026

HPA stated that measles is highly contagious and spreads rapidly among people who are not immune, with nine out of 10 exposed individuals likely to become infected.

The agency said the virus can remain airborne and survive on surfaces for up to two hours, allowing transmission even after an infected person has left an area.

According to HPA, infected individuals can spread the virus from four days before the appearance of a rash until four days afterwards through coughing, sneezing, or talking.

🟡މާލެ ސަރައްޙަދުން މިހަފްތާގައި ހިމަބިހި (މިސަލްސް)ގެ 2 ކޭސްވަނީ ޕޮޒިޓިވް ވެފައި #measles pic.twitter.com/KEiypd0XWJ— Health Protection Agency (@HPA_MV) May 13, 2026

Authorities advised the public to monitor for symptoms including fever, flu-like illness, skin rashes, tiredness, sore or red eyes, and small greyish spots inside the mouth.

Health officials also warned that complications linked to measles can include pneumonia, meningitis, vision disturbances, and seizures.

ADK Hospital urged individuals who develop symptoms or suspect measles infection to contact the hospital before visiting healthcare facilities so they can be guided on the safest way to seek treatment.