The government of Maldives has declared a Public Health Emergency amid the spread of Covid-19 in the island nation.

During a press conference held today, Health Minister Abdulla Ameen announced that under the Public Health Law, the government has decided to declare a Public Health Emergency regarding the current situation of COVID-19. This will grant relevant authorities the power to isolate and quarantine people and to take other necessary steps.

"By the discretionary powers vested in the Minister of Health by the Section 33 of the 7/2012 Public Health Act the Minister has declared a State of Public Health Emergency for a period of 30 days from 12th March 2020," Health Protection Agency also confirmed in a tweet.

Steps that can be taken under Section 33 of the Public Health Act are:

- Shutting down of educational centers

- Ordering the ban of gatherings

- Banning gathering at a specific place at a specific time

- Halting domestic flights or taking additional measures

During the press conference Minister Ameen further noted that it is important to follow all directions from authorities and to not act in such a way that would cause panic. He stressed that they are following guidelines and instructions from relevant international authorities and local professionals.

So far there are eight positive cases of Covid-19 in the Maldives.