The total number of COVID-19 cases in the Maldives climbed to 137 on Saturday as the government announced eight new cases, all of them being Maldivians.

Health Protection Agency (HPA) confirmed that eight Maldivians had tested positive today. They however did not disclose any further details of the patients.

Of the 13 new cases reported yesterday, 12 were Maldivians and one foreigner. While the total number of cases are now at 137, 17 of them have successfully recovered. The virus have now been found in the Atolls as well as the capital.

Health Minister Abdulla Ameen had today stressed that it was crucial for all those who were in Male' City during the time of the lockdown to remain in the city to slow down the spread of the virus. He had also requested everyone to be ready for a potential quarantine.

The Health Minister had also hinted that the lockdown that was announced till the 30th of this month might need to be extended.

Another positive case has now brought the total to 138 as well with a patient testing positive in Sh. Narudhoo.