Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem has revealed the government does not plan to implement lockdown procedures over the rise in COVID-19 cases in the Maldives.
Speaking at the Parliament of the Maldives, Minister Naseem said the government plans to continue with the COVID-19 policies that are currently in place in order to minimise the negative impact on the economy and the lives of citizens. The minister said the government does not wish to implement a lockdown anytime soon and that the current positive economic trajectory should be maintained. He added the public needs to learn to live with COVID-19 and to adhere to the necessary precautionary measures when in public or closed spaces.
COVID-19 cases began increasing earlier this month, with over 1,200 cases reported in the last week and 400 cases reported in the week prior. Additionally, 51 hospitalisations and three deaths were also recorded in the past week, raising the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 305 in the Maldives.
In response to the rise in cases, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) urged the public to wear masks outside and in closed spaces and to adhere to precautionary measures when travelling. HPA has also strengthened the safety and precautionary measures in healthcare facilities and establishments providing public services due to the spread of COVID-19.