Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen has stated complacency may cause a surge of COVID-19 cases the country cannot contain.
Speaking at a function to receive COVID-19 test kits donated to Maldives by World Health Organisation (WHO), Health Minister Ameen said the developed world where health facilities are more established and economies more stable are also unable to cope with the surge. The minister further said rich nations like the US, EU countries and economic powers in Asia are unable to manage the outbreak despite their experience, adding the health care systems are failing. He stated Maldives must be more careful considering the economic impact, as this small island nation has its facilities more underdeveloped compared to the global superpowers.
Health Minister Ameen said the public cannot be complacent in abiding by the instruction from the ministry as the measures protect the lives of everyone in the society. The minister stressed the importance of following instructions for the common good and wellbeing of society.
The health minister also applauded the efforts of health care professionals although the public may not see their efforts and said the continuous efforts by health care professionals will further positively be driven should the public follow instructions. He said the current global pandemic is dismantling entire health systems and economy of the developed nations and hence, Maldives must be fully prepared for a surge and take proactive measures.
The health minister noted although most people observe the curfew announced by the Director-General of Public Health, many people still freely move around during the hours of the curfew. The minister urged the public not to be complacent in observing the instruction to stay indoors and practice social distancing. He also urged people to seek online services more.
19 positive cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the Maldives, while 13 of them have made full recoveries. Currently, Maldives has 4 active cases in the country, as two were reported positive for the disease after they departed the country. Four Maldivians who returned from the UK are the only active cases in the country.
Health Minister Ameen said Maldives has had success in containing the virus without a possible community spread and hence, more efforts must be taken to keep it under control. The minister said the responsibility to prevent it from spreading largely lies on the people. He called on the public to refrain from social engagements and going out unless necessary.