HPA amends quarantine guideline for returnees from abroad

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has amended the guideline policy for quarantine of locals and foreigners after returning from abroad.

The guideline now states that individuals returning from abroad under work visas, their dependents, as well as locals have to undergo a mandatory quarantine as a precaution against COVID-19.

Individuals quarantined under the policy will have to register at the ‘Haalu Belun’ portal. They can co9mplete their quarantine at a location of their choice.

Previously, the guideline did not stipulate that individuals must quarantine after returning to the Maldives but strongly advised the measure.

However, now a 14-day quarantine period must be completed.  They will be released after testing negative for COVID-19. Individuals in Male’ City will have to test at the Flu Clinic.

Quarantine guidelines for other islands across the nation remain unchanged.

The strengthened guideline is a response to the return of many locals abroad, now that the borders of the country have reopened.

The recent rise of cases has also led to the measure. COVID-19 Cases are currently numbered at 40-60, whereas before the lockdown easements, cases numbered at 10-15. 

The Maldives has confirmed 2,930 cases of the virus so far, along with 15 deaths. The country has also recorded 2,354 recoveries.