Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen has urged the public to follow the instructions given by healthcare workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic, noting hundreds of people are working through day and night to ensure the safety and well-being of the nation.
In his message on the occasion of World Health Day 2020, Health Minister Ameen noted the day coincided with a time the world is facing one of the toughest health crises in history. Noting it has been 30 days since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Maldives, the minister said it has been a gloomy 30 days for Maldives. He added the government is working to the best of its ability to prevent a community spread situation as it could cripple the healthcare system of the country.
The health minister highlighted the sacrifice of healthcare workers, police and officials of relevant authorities who are working day and night to ensure the safety and well-being of the nation. The minister added the sacrifices will go to waste if the public does not follow the instructions to stay indoors and practice social distancing.
The health minister noted the geographical setting of Maldives presents an advantage in fighting the spread of COVID-19, as the nation consists of scattered islands separated by sea. However, he highlighted the risk of spread is higher in Male’ which is densely populated, adding social distancing is key to prevent a community spread of the coronavirus.
Furthermore, the minister stated unity is a major weapon in the fight against COVID-19, noting any success Maldives has achieved thus far in containing the spread is the result of standing united. He urged the public to continue cooperating with the measures imposed by authorities to control the outbreak.
Noting this year’s World Health Day is dedicated to nurses and midwives, the health minister highlighted the contribution of nurses and midwives during the current health crisis and thanked them for their tireless efforts. He concluded his statement by reiterating the importance of unity and abiding by instructions given by healthcare professionals in order to overcome the COVID-19 crisis.