The government of Maldives has declared State of Public Health Emergency for a period of 30 days over the situation of COVID-19 in the country. The declaration of State of Public Health Emergency, the Director General of Public Health is granted with certain powers and authorities to isolate or quarantine individuals in addition to taking other necessary measures without delays.
In a press conference, Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen said by the discretionary powers vested by section 33 of Public Health Act, the administration has decided to declare the current situation of COVID-19 as a public health emergency. The health minister assured all relevant authorities will do everything in their power to overcome the current situation, adding the guidelines and precautions of World Health Organisation (WHO) will be followed.
State of Public Health Emergency was declared to exert additional efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 and to overcome the disease, according to the minister. At the press conference, the health minister said controlling the spread of the COVID-19 is currently the top priority of the administration while declaring emergency will enable to take swift steps to contain the virus.
Furthermore, the health minister advised all authorities to follow guidelines and to avoid spreading misinformation which discomforts the public. The minister reassured the public that guidelines and instructions from international authorities and technical professionals are being followed and monitored. The minister said no further restrictions are imposed despite the emergency.
This is the first time ever Maldives declared State of Public Health Emergency.