Addu halts communal prayers in mosques amid outbreak

Addu City has suspended communal prayers in mosques as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Restrictions have been strengthened in the populous southern Maldivian city, including a curfew and suspension of dine-in services at cafés and restaurants. Addu City Council said that the decision has been made to impose additional restrictions following discussion within Addu City Taskforce.

This includes the suspension of communal prayers in mosques.

Meanwhile, shops, cafés, restaurants and other food establishments have been ordered to cease delivery services during curfew hours - which is between 18:00-04:00 hours.

Addu City Council has warned they will be conducting inspections to check shops, cafés and restaurants for compliance with Health Protection Agency (HPA) guidelines, and that action will be taken against business establishments found in violation of guidelines, including imposition of fines and temporary closure of the business establishment.

Meanwhile, construction work during curfew hours will require authorization from the Addu Emergency Operations Center, and work without necessary authorization will be met with action.

Residents have also been ordered against visiting other houses, and against having migrant workers brought in for housework.

ACTIVE CASES IN ADDU:

Hithadhoo: 27 cases

Feydhoo: 6 cases

Hulhudhoo: 52 cases

Meedhoo: 11 cases

Maradhoo-Feydhoo: 1 case