Dr. Mohamed Ali: Maldives in the midst of a new, more dangerous variant of COVID-19

Health professionals in the Maldives have stated that the country is in the midst of possibly a new strain of the COVID-19 virus. IGMH's National Center for Respiratory Medicine's Dr. Mohamed Ali stated tonight that a new strain of COVID-19 was in the Maldives.

The doctor's assessment comes after the daily number of virus cases reported in the Maldives increased significantly. The Maldives has confirmed an excess of 700 cases on a daily basis for the last three days. Eight deaths have been reported in the last 48 hours alone and hospitalizations have increased beyond 200.

Dr. Mohamed Ali tweeted tonight that the Maldives was definitely in the midst of a new strain of the virus.

"Looks more infective. Affecting the lungs more vigorously. Deteriorates faster," said the doctor in his tweet.

He advised the public to wash their hands as often as possible, reduce the contact bubble, and to wear masks.

Health Emergency Operation Center (HEOC) has previously said that the rise in cases could lead to the formation of a new strain of the virus in the Maldives as well. 

Vaccination, seen as key to the control of the virus still remains.