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Maldives equipped to deal with an increase in COVID-19 cases: NEOC

National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has stated the Maldives has the required facilities and equipment to deal with an increase in COVID-19 cases upon easing some of the lockdown restrictions.

Speaking at the press conference held to announce the easing of lockdown measures, Dr. Ali Latheef from Technical Advisory Group (TAG) of NEOC noted the spread of COVID-19 has slowed down in the Maldives over the last two weeks, as a result of effective lockdown measures and public compliance. The doctor said while the number of direct contacts of cases detected earlier had been over 30 for Maldivians and over 40 for expatriates, the numbers have been reduced below 10 over the last few weeks.

Noting the necessity to gradually ease lockdown restrictions in Male’ to begin the journey towards a new normal, the doctor said consideration was given to how the country can deal with an increased number of cases once restrictions are eased. He said the Maldives currently has the facilities and equipment to deal with an increase in COVID-19 cases, although lockdown restrictions may still need to be re-imposed if the surge exceeds a certain tolerance level.

The doctor advised the public to continue following the advice of health authorities and to observe personal safety measures despite easing of restrictions. In this regard, he highlighted the importance of wearing masks at all times when going outside, and maintaining hand hygiene and physical distancing.

NEOC has announced the first phase of easing lockdown restrictions in the Greater Male’ Region begins from May 28. While schools and government offices will remain closed during this period, shops and certain businesses are allowed to operate and individuals are allowed to go out under certain conditions.