ADK Hospital Urges Visitors to Wear Masks Amid Rise in Measles and Flu Cases

ADK Hospital has urged people to wear face masks when visiting its facilities following an increase in measles, influenza and other respiratory illnesses reported in Male’ City.

The hospital said wearing masks is an important measure to protect both patients and healthcare staff and to reduce the risk of disease transmission within clinical settings.

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ADK also advised individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms or a rash accompanied by a cough to contact the hospital before visiting in person. Patients with such symptoms have been asked to seek guidance by calling 1440 or the hospital hotline on 7671440.

The hospital said the precaution is intended to help prevent the spread of infectious illnesses to vulnerable patients receiving treatment.

According to the latest figures released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the number of confirmed measles cases in Male’ has risen to 66, with 13 cases currently active.

Most confirmed infections have been reported among people aged over 18, while health authorities have identified 258 contacts linked to the cases.

Authorities are continuing measures to contain the outbreak through an ongoing vaccination campaign. So far, 2,048 people with incomplete measles vaccination and 1,118 frontline healthcare workers have been vaccinated. The Government of India has also donated 20,000 doses of influenza vaccine and three tonnes of medical supplies to support the Maldives’ response.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Health authorities are also monitoring other respiratory illnesses, including circulating coronavirus variants, influenza and the common cold, as well as seasonal dengue cases during the monsoon transition.