Dr. Nazla calls out resorts for recklessness in following Covid-19 safety rules

Spokesperson for the Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC) Dr. Nazla Rafeeq has called out resorts for their recklessness in following Covid-19-related health and safety measures.

Dr. Nazla made the remarks during a press conference, highlighting that the number of positive cases being reported at resorts in the Maldives was on the rise.

She noted that resorts were refusing to test employees and guests despite them exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19, and emphasized the importance of testing as quickly as possible if persons are experiencing flu-like symptoms in order to prevent widespread transmissions.

In addition to this, Dr. Nazla also expressed concern that resort employees were returning work without first observing a full quarantine period, and that social distancing, masking rules and other Covid-related health and safety regulations were not being implemented in communal staff areas.

Dr. Nazla warned that it was critical to be vigilant even for the smallest details as such cavalier carelessness could result in widespread transmission of Covid-19, especially if regulations and guidelines were not being implemented strictly. She also acknowledged that while some resorts were choosing to disregard such regulations, others were carefully implementing social distancing and new normal rules among staff and guests to safeguard their health.

Alluding to the increase in the number of travelers visiting the Maldives at this time, Dr. Nazla emphasized that Covid-19 was spreading at an alarming rate in countries from which tourists were flying in from. She said that some tourists who were entering the Maldives were also testing positive, and that the strict health and safety regulations in place were preventing widespread transmission of the virus among Maldivians.