The fight against rumors and misinformation is a “vital part” of the battle against the global epidemic, Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), says the World Health Organization (WHO) Maldives.

Releasing a statement on Monday, WHO stated that the organization relies on individuals and media to ensure people have “accurate information” about “any threats” they face, as well as how they may protect themselves and others from contamination.

Further, the organization stressed on the importance of a collective, coordinated and comprehensive approach that engages the entire government machinery to avoid the global epidemic.

WHO called on every country to act with scale, clear-minded determination and speed together as one, as this is not a threat to just individual people or countries.

Highlighting that the organization is committed to support the government of Maldives as a trusted partner, WHO asserted that it will partner to implement effective measures in order to protect all.

Moreover, the organization touched on the importance of remaining calm and maintain personal hygiene measures at this critical time.

Some of the precautions urged include frequent hand-washing using clean water, alcohol-based hand rubs or soap, refraining from spitting in public places, avoiding close contact with those who have shown symptoms as well as covering mouth and nose with napkins when coughing or sneezing.

WHO advices the people to stay informed on the latest development about the disease, strictly adhere to recommendations by the organization as well as the Health Protection Agency of the Maldives (HPA).

The statement further reads that the Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has been equipped with the COVID-19 testing kits with the support of the organization which has also shared several technical guidance and extended support in risk communication activities and training sessions for staff to test and diagnose COVID-19.

Assuring the public that the organization is working closely with the authorities to assess risks, WHO stated that immediate needs for screening, contact tracing and testing will be provided effectively.

While four have thus far tested positive to the fatal infection, they are reportedly recovering well.

The government has also imposed travel restrictions on Sandies Bathala Resort and Kuredu Island Resort, following the emergence of positive cases.