Maldives imposes curfews in 5 islands with COVID-19 outbreaks

Maldives has made the decision strengthen restrictions in five residential islands outside the capital amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, including a curfew from 16:00-04:00 hours.

The restrictions were announced in an order signed by Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakr released by Health Protection Agency (HPA) this Friday.

According to the order, the new restrictions will be in effect in five residential islands until informed otherwise starting this Friday.  The islands are Lh. Naifaru, K. Maafushi, AA. Mathiveri, AA. Ukulhas, and B. Eydhafushi.

The new restrictions:

• Curfew between 16:00-04:00 hours
• Ban on parties, functions and ceremonies
• Ban on house visits (visits to access essential needs such as healthcare are exempt)
• Ban on public gatherings in crowds of more than three people
• Closure of gyms, salons and barber’s shops
• Ban on sports and exercise activities
• Shops and taxis are required to follow HPA’s guidelines in providing services
• Suspension of services at cafes, restaurants and teashops with the exception of delivery services

Maldives has been experiencing a surge in COVID-19 infections in recent weeks – both in the capital and in residential islands outside the capital.

Maldives has 33,368 confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 703 new cases on Thursday. The figure includes 526 cases from the greater Male’ region, 167 cases from residential islands outside the capital.

HPA’s decision to impose a curfew and additional restrictions in the five islands follow similar restrictions in the capital.