A lockdown has been imposed on Kaashidhoo island in Kaafu atoll.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said the island has been placed under "monitoring status" as a direct contact of a local who tested positive for COVID-19 in Male' city had recently traveled to the island. Unauthorized persons will not be allowed to enter or exit the island during the lockdown.
A 24-hour lockdown has also been initiated in Male' city following the detection of the case.
An announcement issued by HPA on Wednesday afternoon said no persons will be allowed to enter or exit Male', Villimale', Hulhumale' , Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu for 24 hours effective immediately, until further notice. Public transport including ferries and buses will also stop operation during this period. No vehicles or persons will be allowed on the streets of Male' city during the lockdown.
HPA said as per the new measures enacted in Male' city, departure of all unauthorized vessels docked in any part of Male' city is also prohibited.
21 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the Maldives thus far, out of which 6 are locals. The case identified on Wednesday is the first case detected in a residential island.
