The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed two new cases of measles detected in the Greater Malé region this week, bringing the total number of reported cases in the Maldives this year to five.

According to the agency, two of the confirmed cases were imported, involving individuals who contracted the virus abroad before traveling to the Maldives.

In response to the latest detections, HPA has initiated a series of public health measures aimed at containing the spread of the disease.

These include detailed case investigations to identify the source of infection, as well as contact tracing efforts to determine individuals who may have been exposed.

The agency further stated that vaccination is being administered to those identified as close contacts, as part of efforts to prevent further transmission.

HPA noted that the emergence of these cases comes amid a global increase in measles infections, including in several countries within the region.

As a precaution, the agency has urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever accompanied by a red rash.

Although measles has previously been declared eradicated in the Maldives, health authorities continue to stress the importance of vigilance, as sporadic cases may still occur due to international travel and global outbreaks.