Ministry of Foreign Affairs has revealed all Maldivians in Wuhan City, China are healthy and safe.
Following the outbreak of the coronavirus in China, the foreign ministry said it is closely monitoring the health situation of Maldivians residing in China, via the Maldivian Embassy in Beijing. In this regard, the foreign ministry noted all 6 Maldivians in Wuhan City have been contacted, assuring they are in good health.
The foreign ministry has asked all Maldivians in China to register at the embassy as the virus is rapidly spreading to all parts of China. Moreover, the ministry affirmed necessary actions are being taken in cooperation with Chinese foreign ministry to ensure the safety of Maldivians in China.
Meanwhile, China has assured to ensure the safety of all foreigners in the country. China has also revealed all necessary protocols of World Health Organisation (WHO) are being followed. Under the protocol, travelling in and out of Wuhan has been prohibited. About 700 people have been found positive for the coronavirus, according to Chinese authorities.
Coronavirus is part of a family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). These viruses are transmitted between animals and people.
WHO states signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. Reports say the incubation period of the coronavirus remains unknown, but other sources say it could be between 10 to 14 days.
Beyond China, Thailand has reported four cases, Singapore three, Japan two, while South Korea, Taiwan, and the US have each confirmed one. All the cases involve people who had travelled from Wuhan or been there recently.