Recently, the Maldives has experienced a measles outbreak, less than three years after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the country measles-free in 2017. To combat this health crisis, India has stepped in, providing over 30,000 doses of the Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccine. As an indication of goodwill and solidarity, the government of India was presented a certificate of appreciation by the Maldives.
Fostering India-Maldives Relations
This act of help signifies a crucial step towards strengthening ties between India and the Maldives. In line with this initiative, both countries agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on health cooperation, signed in June 2019. The MoU outlines mutual support in several areas such as capacity building and training of medical professionals, disease surveillance, training of mental health specialists, and establishing digital health capacities in the Maldives.
Aside from health assistance, India also aids in infrastructural projects. It is currently assisting the Maldives in constructing a 100-bed Cancer Hospital in Hulhumale, funded under its $800 million Line of Credit.
Both countries are members of the WHO’s Regional Committee for South-East Asia, reinforcing their commitment to addressing regional health issues and cooperating in managing disease outbreaks.
Understanding Measles and Rubella
Measles is a dangerously contagious viral disease and a major cause of death among young children worldwide. It can lead to serious complications, including blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea, ear infection, and pneumonia.
Rubella, also referred to as German Measles, is a contagious but generally mild viral infection common in children and young adults. Pregnant women infected with rubella risk fetal death or congenital defects, collectively known as Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). CRS is responsible for irreversible birth defects.
The Power of Vaccination
Measles and Rubella, despite being caused by different viruses, share similar symptoms, including the iconic red rashes. The Measles & Rubella Initiative, a global program, is dedicated to eradicating these diseases.
| Vaccine Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Measles-Rubella (MR) | This vaccine covers both measles and rubella. |
| Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) | In addition to measles and rubella, this vaccine also covers mumps. |
| Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella (MMRV) | This vaccine not only covers measles, mumps and rubella but also varicella, commonly known as chickenpox. |
Vaccines are offered in combinations of Measles-Rubella (MR), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), or Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella (MMRV) to provide overall immunisation.