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Additional PCR testing facilities to be established in the atolls

Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) has announced the decision to establish additional PCR testing facilities in the atolls in order to increase the COVID-19 testing capacity in the atolls.

Speaking at a press conference held by HEOC, Spokesperson at the President’s Office Mohamed Mabrook Azeez said efforts are underway to establish new PCR testing facilities in Laamu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Raa and Lhaviyani Atoll. Mabrook said Ministry of Health is currently working on training the staff required for these facilities, noting each facility will be testing at least 300 samples every day. He said the aim is to establish the facilities within a period of one month.

COVID-19 cases in atolls have increased significantly over the past few months. There are currently about 70 islands under monitoring due to detection of COVID-19 cases.