A state of public health emergency has been declared in the Maldives.

Maldives’ Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen declared a public health emergency for a 30-day period across the country, from March 12, during an emergency press conference held on Thursday afternoon.

The minister stated that the declaration is being made under the powers granted to him by section 33 of the Public Health Act (7/2012).

Under the Public Health Act (7/2012), infected persons or persons suspected of infection must follow the instructions of the relevant authorities. If they refuse, a civil court case can be filed against them as a consequence. The law also states that court order can be enforced through police.

The minister explained that the Director of Public Health is responsible for such decisions and that the declaration gives the Health Protection Agency (HPA) authority over several matters including shutting down schools and banning public gatherings. Nevertheless, the minister stated that no other additional steps will be taken.

Explaining the reason behind the declaration, the minister stated that this decision was made to remove challenges and obstacles to take urgently necessary action.

Highlighting that the situation has not deteriorated so far, the minister stated that the decision is an advanced precautionary measure.

The public health emergency was declared shortly after a meeting by the Cabinet of ministers held on Thursday morning at the President's Office, where discussions focused on additional safety and security measures in view of Covid-19 being assigned pandemic status by the World Health Organization (WHO).