Addu remains open even as COVID-19 cases surge

Active cases of COVID-19 in Addu – the second-most populous Maldivian city – has surged above 150. 

According to Addu Equatorial Hospital, the city recorded 12 new cases last Wednesday, increasing active cases to 169. 

An individual in Hulhudhoo district who was not in home quarantine tested positive for COVID-19 on August 24. However, the city has not been placed under monitoring. 

While Addu Equatorial Hospital has not commented on the decision, Health Protection Agenc (HPA) said that the decision to place islands under monitoring isn’t based on the number of active cases. 

HPA said the decision is based on independent positive cases and their movement. 

Addu Equatorial Hospital said random testing has been suspended in the city, and that only people in quarantine and travelers are being tested. The reason for the decision is unclear. 

However, HPA said it has not instructed the hospital to suspend random testing, and that random testing must be conducted in accordance with relevant protocols. 

Addu has recorded three COVID-19 deaths. One COVID-19 patient is currently hospitalized.