Monitoring measures have been implemented in Ungoofaaru island of Raa atoll.

An official at the Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC), Abdulla Mauroof told press on Monday night that the Covid-19 case in the island was discovered through random sampling conducted on Monday.

This prompted authorities to implement monitoring measures in the island.

Samples were collected from 60 individuals on Monday, including 20 frontline workers at the hospital, 15 employees at restaurants and shops on the island as well as 20 individuals who exhibited symptoms of the infection.

Further, authorities also collected random samples from five expatriates on the island.

Following the monitoring measures, island residents will be mandated to wear face masks in public spaces and exiting and entering the island is also prohibited.

Other precautionary measures include schools being closed down, as well as the halting of sports activities.

HEOC has urged those working at shops and places that provide general services to the public, to wear face masks at all times.

Although dine-in services have been prohibited at cafés and restaurants, take-away services are open for island residents.

Island resident have also been urged to strictly adhere to social distancing guidelines.

In addition, authorities revealed that residents of other island seeking treatment from the Regional Hospital in Ungoofaaru will be required to seek permission from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) before visiting the island.

Mauroof went on to add that the goods and food supply delivered to the island from capital Malé City will also be unloaded under a set of special guidelines, after talks with the island council.