National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has revealed the Maldives will have more phases in easing lockdown restrictions as compared to other countries.
Speaking at the daily press briefing, Spokesperson of NEOC Mohamed Mabrook Azeez said the government will ease restrictions in a way that can minimise the risk of a second wave of COVID-19 transmission. Mabrook noted several countries are facing the repercussions of lifting restrictions too rapidly and without proper safety measures in place. He said the Maldives will not make the same mistake, noting the country will have more phases in easing restrictions as compared to other countries.
Speaking further, the spokesperson said an increase of COVID-19 cases is inevitable when restrictions are lifted to any extent. However, he said a tolerance will be allocated to the increase in cases, noting lockdown restrictions will be re-imposed when this tolerance is exceeded.
Speaking at the press briefing, Dr. Ibrahim Afzal from Technical Advisory Group (TAG) said the Maldives is gradually easing restrictions as it is the best option in order to return to a normal situation. He said the number of new COVID-19 cases identified in the Maldives on a daily basis is now at baseline, indicating a certain level of containment.
The government is currently working on finalising the policy on easing lockdown restrictions in the Maldives. Minister of Health Abdulla Amen revealed the first document of the policy has been drafted upon discussions with healthcare professionals and authorities.