UNICEF Donates 28,000 Measles-Rubella Vaccine Doses to Maldives

The United Nations Children’s Fund has donated 28,000 doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine and medical equipment to support the Maldives’ response to the ongoing measles outbreak.

The items were handed over during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health today. Minister of Health, Family and Welfare Geela Ali signed the agreement on behalf of the Maldivian government, while UNICEF Representative to the Maldives Edward Addai signed on behalf of the organisation.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Geela said the donation would provide significant support to efforts to contain the current measles outbreak and reflected the strong partnership between the Maldives and UNICEF.

“Maintaining strong immunization coverage is essential not only to protect children today but also to safeguard public health for the future.” – UNICEF Rep @eddie_addai

📸 Handover of vaccines & devices to @MoHmv to support the national response to the current measles outbreak. pic.twitter.com/Vdhy4toe9B— UNICEF Maldives (@UNICEFMaldives) July 8, 2026

She described the 28,000 vaccine doses and accompanying equipment as an important resource in protecting the population against the outbreak.

The minister said more than 5,400 people have been vaccinated through the ongoing immunisation campaign. She added that authorities are continuing to expand laboratory testing and carry out contact tracing to contain the spread of the disease, while thanking healthcare workers for their efforts.

Geela also urged anyone at risk of measles to get vaccinated, describing immunisation as an important step in protecting individuals, families and the wider community.

The donation follows additional support from the India, which recently provided 20,000 doses of measles vaccine and three tonnes of medical equipment to assist the Maldives’ healthcare response.

According to health authorities, 121 measles cases have been confirmed since the outbreak began in May, including 55 reported last week alone. The Health Protection Agency said 5,495 people have received the measles vaccine as part of the ongoing response.

Earlier today, Geela told Parliament the outbreak remained under the control of health authorities. She said testing equipment had been distributed to both Malé and the atolls and noted that high immunity levels from previous vaccination programmes would help contain the spread of the disease.