COVID-19: 1 positive case identified from random sampling

National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) medical officer, Dr. Ibrahim Afzal has stated that a positive case of COVID-19 was identified from random sampling conducted in Male' City.

The authorities are conducting random sampling of individuals in Male’ City, Hulhumale’ and Vilimale’, which was announced earlier this week.

Speaking in a press conference, NEOC medical officer Dr. Ibrahim Afzal stated that a positive case of the virus was identified through random sampling. He added that there was a chance for more similar cases from random sampling.

“One has tested positive from random sampling. However, since this is done in a broad manner, we expect more focus (cases) to be identified.” Said Dr. Afzal.

The purpose of the sampling was to locate any unidentified clusters of the virus in the capital. Dr. Afzal has previously stated that 20 clusters have been so far identified in the Maldives.

The country has confirmed 277 cases of the virus so far. Out of the figure, 17 have made full recoveries.