Maldives on Thursday quarantined the first suspected case of the coronavirus, which has been spreading at an alarming rate across the globe.
Speaking during a press conference on Thursday night, Health Minister Abdulla Ameen noted that a 20 year old Maldivian has been found as a suspicious case for the coronavirus. The Minister also noted that the man has now been placed in the isolation facility at Kaafu Atoll Funadhoo.
"On Thursday, 30th January through effective screening and surveillance mechanisms; a Maldivian national has been identified as a suspected case and has been placed in designated isolation area. Laboratory samples have been sent for testing for Novel Coronavirus," a tweet from the Ministry noted.
Minister Ameen also said that during the screening at Velana International Airport there were no symptoms. He had consulted a doctor for flu like symptoms the next day from his arrival, and yet did not exhibit any symptoms of a fever. However, upon enquiring about his travel history within China, it was found that he had been to a meat market in China within the past 14 days.
The Minister further noted that the Maldives will act in accordance to all guidelines set by WHO.