Maldives has recorded 104 deaths of Covid patients since the pandemic hit, 30 of them in the span of the past two weeks alone. Currently experiencing the worst hit wave of the pandemic in the country, an exhausted healthcare system is at a final stretch, taking care of almost 17,000 active cases as of today.
The situation has spiraled out of control in a sudden turn, landing at a point where 1 in every 3 samples taken are resulting positive. This concerningly includes pregnant women, and an average of 80 children under the age of 10 every single day. 268 patients across the country are being treated at hospitals, most of which in the Greater Male’ Region having reached over 80% occupancy. Even the youth are now critical targets of the virus, almost 60% of the active cases consisting of those between the ages of 18 and 40.
It is still worrisome to note that on a regular basis, 100s are having to be fined for not complying with the restrictive measures put in place. 57 islands, including the Greater Male’ Region are either on monitoring or have imposed restrictive measures. Nationwide restrictions have also been announced in the beginning of this month, which are still being observed for another two weeks.
Authorities are working around the clock to serve those in need, most recently having taken steps to convert hospital wards in Hulhumale Hospital and IGMH to Covid facilities. They urge getting vaccinated, and taking full responsibility as an individual to ensure all safety measures advised are being practiced at all times. This includes staying home whenever possible, and reducing public interaction and going outside. The high-risk category people – elderly, pregnant women and children – are our responsibility to take care of in ensuring they are not exposed to the virus.