National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has stated only government institutions providing essential services will be opened during the first phase of easing the lockdown imposed in the Greater Male’ Region.
Speaking at the daily press briefing, Spokesperson of NEOC Mohamed Mabrook Azeez said restrictions will be lifted gradually under different phases, based on the changing situation of COVID-19 in the Maldives. He added only government institutions providing essential services will be opened during the first phase of easing restrictions, although a specific date to begin lifting the restrictions has not yet been finalised.
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen had earlier revealed the government is formulating a new normal policy, detailing the measures to be taken to ensure there is no new surge of COVID-19 cases when restrictions are lifted. He said the first document of the new normal policy has been drafted, upon discussions with healthcare professionals and authorities.
The minister further said the number of people seeking treatment from hospitals and clinics is expected to increase when restrictions are lifted. Therefore, he said the new normal policy will include details of how outpatient services can be sought from hospitals and clinics, adding the priority will be given to essential and critical care.