Tourism Ministry has revealed that the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has begun screening tourist arrivals for the Novel Coronavirus.

A press release issued by the Ministry assured the public and tourists that all safety measures have been taken to protect the well-being of all following the emergence of the Novel Coronavirus in China.

"The Health Protection Agency of Maldives have begun entry screening at Velana International Airport. We would like to further assure all travellers that these measures are precautionary and no cases have been identified in Maldives," the press added.

The Ministry further noted that the highest priority of the government is ensuring all travellers and visitors are protected and safe and that all possible and necessary measures are implemented to achieve that.