Random sample acceptable for release of inbound local travelers

Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC) states that results of samples taken through random testing are acceptable as release sample for inbound local travelers.

Maldives has mandated COVID-19 PCR tests for all inbound travelers starting Monday. 

Meanwhile, inbound travelers, with the exception of tourists, are required to take a COVID-19 PCR test within 3-5 days of arrival to Maldives. This applies to locals and work visa holders. 

Local and work visa holders who have not completed their vaccination are required to undergo 14 days of quarantine, at the end of which they will be required to take a COVID-19 PCR test. 

Children under the age of 12 years are exempt from the rule. 

HEOC’s media official, Health Ministry’s Quality Assurance Commissioner Thasleema Usman (Thahey) told Sun on Monday morning that samples taken through random testing are acceptable for release of inbound local travelers.

The strengthening of travel restrictions comes as a precaution against Omicron – a new and more contagious variant of COVID-19. 

Maldives has recorded five cases of Omicron variant so far – all of them tourists.