Curfew imposed in Naifaru, Huraa after increase COVID-19 cases

A curfew has been imposed on the islands of K. Huraa and Lh. Naifaru due to an increased surge in the number of COVID-19 cases detected on the islands. 

The curfew imposed was on the orders of the Health Protection Agency (HPA). 

Huraa was placed under monitoring mechanisms on March 23 after an elderly individual transported to Male' City from the island tested positive for the virus. A total of 515 random samples were collected from the island with 104 samples returning as positive for the virus.

Due to the increase in cases, the HPA ordered a number of measures on the island. This includes a curfew, ban on public gatherings of more than three people, ban on residents visiting other houses on the island, ban on public gatherings such as parties, ceasing cafes, restaurant services with the exception of delivery services, closure of schools, gyms and salons. 

Exemptions are made for medical professionals, ambulance services, MNDF officials, those with a pass of the taskforce, individuals in need of emergency medical care. 

The island of Lh. Naifaru is also under a curfew after the island confirmed 72 cases of the virus. HPA ordered a number of measures on the island in addition to the curfew such as a ban on public gatherings of more than three people, ban on residents visiting other houses on the island, ban on public gatherings such as parties, ceasing cafes, restaurant services with the exception of delivery services, closure of schools, gyms, and salons. 

Much like Huraa, medical professionals, ambulance services, MNDF officials, those with a pass of the taskforce, individuals in need of emergency medical care are exempt from the measures.