Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced PCR testing for tourists has been arranged at the laboratory of Maldives Police Service (MPS) instead of Tree Top Hospital.
HPA initially announced PCR testing for tourists had been arranged in five hospitals, including Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), ADK Hospital and Tree Top Hospital, Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital and Addu Equatorial Hospital. However, HPA has now announced MPS laboratory will be conducting PCR tests for tourists instead of Tree Top Hospital.
HPA stated samples must be sent to the testing facility at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time of the tourist. The agency stated copies of the passport and travel itinerary must be submitted to the testing facility, along with contact information.
Maldives reopened its borders for tourists on July 15, more than three months after borders were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Resorts and safaris have been opened for tourists since July 15, although guesthouses remain closed.
Meanwhile, the country is experiencing a second wave of COVID-19 cases since lockdown restrictions were eased in July. Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) revealed efforts are underway to increase treatment facilities and human resources for the latest surge in cases, as the infection rate is threatening to exceed the healthcare capacity of the country. In this regard, HEOC announced clinics will be set up in Thaajuddeen School and Hiriyaa School in Male’, to provide outpatient consultation for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and cannot be transferred to isolation facilities. HEOC has also stated discussions are ongoing to establish additional treatment facilities based on the increasing rate of hospital admissions.
The main facility established to treat COVID-19 patients in the Maldives is the Hulhumale’ Medical Facility. Over 70% of the beds in the facility are now occupied due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases.