Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen has stated appropriate preventive measures will save the country from a novel coronavirus outbreak, reducing its effects.
Speaking at the function to inaugurate preparatory activities and procedures in case infected individuals are found in Maldives, Minister Ameen remarked the measures of the neighbouring countries are also a protection for the people of Maldives. The minister said the virus is a national concern and the administration intends to protect the country and its people from the virus. He said the ministry is also working on developing a protocol and procedures in case an individual is identified form one of the islands.
The health minister said arrangements and preventive measures have been taken in all airports and seaports, while all officials working to attend cases of coronavirus in airports have been trained by the health ministry. He said the virus is closely connected to the people and the economy.
The novel coronavirus, which originated in the city of Wuhan in China, has become a global health concern as it is highly contagious and deadly. While some countries have temporarily suspended on arrival visa to Chinese tourists, protocols and procedures have been set up to mitigate the effects of the virus.
Chinese authorities have warned the virus will hit its peak in the next 10 days and will start weakening afterwards.