Maldives reports first measles death in years as outbreak grows

A 24-year-old Maldivian man suspected to have died from measles has become the first reported death in the country’s largest outbreak since the disease was eliminated in 2017. The immunocompromised man from Gaaf Dhaal Fiyoaree passed away at Hulhumalé Hospital on Monday, according to the Health Protection Agency (HPA). HPA said the cause of death is unconfirmed and is under clinical review. The man tested positive for measles last month and was being treated for other infections. His death comes amid 144 confirmed measles cases this year, with 23 recorded in the Malé area over the past week. The outbreak is primarily affecting adults aged 15 to 39, many of whom missed a second vaccine dose. HPA has vaccinated over 7,100 people in an ongoing drive, but the immunity gap among adults remains a challenge. Measles is highly contagious, and health officials warn that the Maldives could lose its elimination status if transmission continues beyond 12 months. The public is urged to get vaccinated and report symptoms.

Article and image source: maldivesindependent.com