Monitoring mechanisms on Thakandhoo lifted, after virus cases recover

Monitoring mechanisms on the island of H. A. Thakandhoo has been lifted after the island confirmed three cases of COVID-19 May 1. 

A state of emergency was declared on the island on the following day and the island was placed under monitoring mechanisms. Those who tested positive for the virus were immediately isolated. 14 individuals in contact with the individuals were also tested for the virus, proving to be negative.

Those who tested positive in Thakandhoo were connected to a cluster of cases identified from the Kaaviyaa boat, a passenger boat that departed from Male’ City before it was placed under lockdown on April 15. 

National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) spokesperson Mabrouq Azeez, in a press conference last night, confirmed that the mechanisms on Thakandhoo had been removed. The three individuals that were confirmed for the virus have all made full recoveries from the virus.

Lockdown measures on Male’ City are also to be rolled back on May 28. Meanwhile, collective prayers will recommence in mosques across the country under specific guidelines set by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir announced that islands not under monitoring mechanisms would be allowed to recommence mass prayers.

Government officials as well as public health figures have announced that the virus was now under control in the Maldives.