National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has revealed it is unable to find enough people to work in the rapid response team (RRT) and the shortage is causing delays in the collection of samples to test for COVID-19.
Speaking at the daily press briefing held at the NEOC, Abdul Hameed, who is leading the RRT, said over 800 COVID-19 patients have been transferred so far. Hameed said the team has additionally inspected 41 facilities, collected samples and identified symptomatic people to ensure they mitigate possible exposure of the spread.
The head of the RRT said the biggest worry is delay in collecting samples. Stating the RRT would take all precautions to ensure safety of the general public, he said personal protective equipment (PPE) of all team members are changed for every sample collected. Hameed attributed the delay to various safety protocols and staff shortage.
The head of the RRT said an additional challenge for the team is the bad weather the Maldives is currently experiencing. Furthermore, the traffic on the streets even amidst the lockdown and delayed access to households are also reasons Hameed stated that delays the collection of samples.