Funeral processions of deceased COVID-19 patient conducted

Photo shows a team of MNDF officers preparing to carry out the funeral procession of the first patient to pass away from COVID-19 in the Maldives. The patient passed away on April 29, 2020.

The first patient to pass away from COVID-19 in the Maldives has been buried.

The patient named Aminath Adam, 83 years of age, passed away in the evening of yesterday. Funeral processions were conducted by a female team of MNDF officers. The team had undertaken the appropriate safety measures recommended by the authorities regarding the procession.

MNDF officers had undergone training on how to conduct funeral processions in such situations.

The deceased is a direct contact of a positive case. Samples had been collected from her for testing when she passed away after her condition deteriorated. In a press conference, tonight, National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) medical officer, Dr. Ali Latheef stated that she had multiple health complications.

Photo shows a team of MNDF officers carrying out the funeral procession of the first patient to pass away from COVID-19 in the Maldives. The patient passed away on April 29, 2020.

The test results of her samples had come back as positive after she passed away confirming the first fatality of the virus in the Maldives.

Health Minister Ameen stated that deceased patients of COVID-19 would not be buried in a separate location. Minister Ameen also stated that if an elderly patient is admitted in a hospital, they would be automatically tested for the virus even if no symptoms are visible.

The Minister also conveyed his condolences to the family of Aminath on behalf of the government and himself.

The Maldives has so far confirmed 280 cases of the virus.