The number of confirmed measles cases in the Maldives has risen to 15, with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) continuing to monitor the situation closely.

HPA said 15 cases have been confirmed since the first measles case was detected in the Maldives on May 13. Four of the cases were identified during the past week, while all confirmed infections have so far been reported from the Greater Malé Region.

The agency noted that measles cases have increased significantly in several countries, raising the risk of imported infections through international travel. However, HPA said the risk of widespread transmission in the Maldives remains low due to the country's high vaccination coverage and ongoing immunisation efforts.

HPA has urged the public to cooperate with contact tracing efforts by providing information on individuals they have been in contact with and details of their recent travel history. The agency said such cooperation is essential to limiting the spread of the disease.

Authorities are also preparing to launch a vaccination campaign targeting individuals who have not received measles vaccinations. Until then, vaccines are being administered to close contacts of confirmed cases as part of containment measures.

The agency advised anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles to seek medical attention promptly. Common symptoms include fever and a red rash that spreads across the body. HPA also urged people with flu-like symptoms to wear masks, practise regular hand hygiene and avoid crowded places.

Individuals with weakened immune systems and those with chronic health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness. HPA stressed the importance of ensuring that both doses of the measles vaccine have been received.