The Covid-19 positivity rate among tourists has dropped to 0.09 percent, between August 1 – 25.

This was revealed by the Ministry of Tourism through its latest figures, which shows that 0.19 percent of tourists that arrived in the Maldives between 15 July – 31 December 2020 had tested positive for the virus, whereas the positivity rate among tourists between 1 January – 25 August 2021 was at 0.25 percent. The rate dropped to 0.09 percent between 1 - 25 August 2021.

Statistics show that 93 percent of individuals employed in resorts of the Maldives tourism industry have been fully vaccinated against coronavirus by Wednesday, with 99 percent of resort workers having received first doses.

Vaccination figures nationwide have begun increasing at a time the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced plans to halt the administration of first doses, on September 1. So far, 300,671 persons have been fully vaccinated nationwide, with the number of persons to have received first doses sitting at 380,379.

The Maldives has been making steady efforts to resuscitate tourism across the island nation, and began a large-scale Covid-19 vaccination programme for airport workers and tourism sector employees as well.

Authorities launched the Covid-19 inoculation drive for tourism industry workers on February 4 this year. Priority is given to vaccinate tourism sector employees who come in close contact with tourists, such as those working on liveaboard vessels, guesthouse employees and those performing guest service roles at various tourist establishments.

Earlier the ministry launched the "I'm Vaccinated" campaign with an aim to share a positive message regarding vaccinations of staff employed in the industry as well as promoting initiatives taken to ensure the Maldives remains one of the safest travel destinations.

The ministry aims to make Maldives the first fully-vaccinated tourism sector globally. The stringent health and safety guidelines currently in place will pave way for this target to be reached, in addition to the added advantage of Maldives' unique formation which ensures social distancing.