Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced no positive cases of COVID-19 were found in Thinadhoo, Vaavu Atoll.
HPA revealed three individuals, including an Italian national were identified with COVID-19 symptoms and transferred to the isolation centre in Farukolhufushi for monitoring and testing. HPA said further tests would be conducted although the tests have shown negative results. The agency also revealed restriction on entry and exit in the island has now been lifted.
Meanwhile, HPA announced Kuredu Island Resort in Lhaviyani Atoll has been placed under temporary lockdown after an Italian tourist who stayed in the resort was tested positive for the virus upon return to Italy. HPA said authorities are in contact with the Italian tourist and the resort's management to confirm the results of the test and to carry out contact tracing.
HPA also announced two French nationals who developed symptoms of COVID-19 while holidaying in Summer Island Resort have been transferred to the isolation facility in Farukolhufushi for monitoring and testing. The agency revealed the resort has also been placed under lockdown as a result, to carry out contact tracing.
Speaking at a press conference, Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen stated banning the entry and exit to and from the islands is followed in accordance to set protocols, adding the ban is effective until test results of the suspected cases come out.
As part of the efforts of the administration, foreign passengers originating from and transiting through Italy or have a 14-day travel history that includes Italy will not be permitted entry to Maldives starting from March 8. The administration has also restricted entry to foreigners traveling from China, where the virus first emerged as well as South Korea and Iran.
Meanwhile, test kits for COVID-19 and an intensive care unit specialised for treatment of the disease have been established in Indira Gandi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). Emergency drills have also been conducted to prepare for an outbreak in Maldives.