Maldives has recorded the first cases of the new novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
Speaking in a press conference, Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen said the two people tested positive for the virus are two foreigners brought to Farukolhufushi from Kuredu Island Resort in Lhaviyani Atoll. They are two foreign staff working in the resort, according to the minister. He urged all citizens to avoid panicking and to refer to official announcements made by authorities.
The Maldivian authorities have now prohibited entering and leaving the resort. Maldives contracted COVID-19 from an Italian tourist.
Furthermore, Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed assured authorities in Maldives are following the guidelines and standards of World Health Organisation (WHO). He said a cabinet meeting will be held and information will be disseminated afterward.
Meanwhile, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) announced Kuredu Island Resort 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 carry out contact tracing.
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.
The test kits for COVID-19 and an intensive care unit specialised for treatment of the disease have been established in Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). Emergency drills have also been conducted to prepare for an outbreak in Maldives.