Maldives: Curfew extended in Greater Malé until 14 July /update 13

Event

Maldivian authorities have extended the daily overnight curfew in Greater Malé by two weeks following a rise in the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the area. The 23:00 to 05:00 (local time) curfew affects Malé, Vilimalé, and Hulhumalé, and will remain in place until at least July 14. However, there are no movement restrictions outside of these times.

Those on islands with no confirmed COVID-19 cases are permitted to travel to the Greater Malé region following the lifting of inter-island travel restrictions. However, travel from Malé to the surrounding islands requires a 14-day mandatory quarantine period.

Public and mass gatherings remain banned, while gatherings of more than 30 people are not permitted in public spaces. The use of face masks is mandatory in all enclosed and public spaces.

As of Friday, July 4, health authorities have confirmed 2400 COVID-19 cases in the Maldives, with ten associated deaths. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantine measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.