The lockdown imposed in Addu City has been lifted, after the first COVID-19 case reported from the city subsequently returned negative results.
Addu City was locked down on May 9 after an individual who was transferred from Addu to Male’ City tested positive for COVID-19. However, the individual subsequently tested negative for the disease, prompting Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru to order Addu City Council to lift the lockdown.
The city council said although the lockdown has been lifted, movement restrictions would still be in place as a precautionary measure. As such, the council said a police permit would be required to travel from one ward to another, while gatherings of more than 3 people are still prohibited.
Meanwhile, Manager of Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH) Sharaful Saadhaath stated online consultations of the hospital would continue despite lifting the lockdown, noting OPD services will be provided twice weekly. He also noted precautionary measures in the hospital have been strengthened to reduce the risk of community transmission of COVID-19.