The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has verified 22 measles cases in the Greater Malé Region this year, after identifying two more cases in the previous week.

The HPA reports that the majority of confirmed cases pertain to Maldivian citizens who are 18 years or older.

Health officials have recognized 543 contacts associated with the cases, with 173 active contacts now being monitored.

To assist in controlling the transmission of the illness, the HPA initiated a public campaign for measles vaccinations today.

The initial phase focuses on healthcare workers in direct contact with patients and minors under 18 who have not received their suggested vaccine doses.

The agency has also revealed that the second phase of the campaign is set to commence on June 30 and will offer vaccinations to those under 30 who have not finished their immunization schedule.

Plans are nearing completion for a third phase that will broaden vaccinations to individuals younger than 49.

To date, 220 recognized contacts have received vaccinations, in addition to 1,537 frontline healthcare professionals.

Alongside the vaccination initiative, the HPA stated it is still enhancing disease monitoring, offering training to healthcare workers, and increasing public awareness via television, radio, and social media in its aim to stop further spread of measles.