The Health Protection Agency, HPA has updated its guidelines to include the situations in which the use of masks will not be mandatory.

The Maldives government earlier on Saturday mandated the use of masks when out in public after a rapid spike in the number of COVID-19 cases were recorded in the capital. Authorities also imposed a hefty fine of MVR 1,000 for those found in violation of the rules.

An announcement issued by HPA said children below the age of two and those who are dependent on others to wear and remove masks are exempted from the rule. The use of masks when exercising in public is also not mandatory. Those seeking services at restaurants and cafes’ that follow HPA guidelines are exempted from wearing masks, said HPA.

The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 has increased over the past few days, with the archipelago recording its highest daily spike on Sunday. While 215 individuals tested positive on Sunday, the tally has now increased to 4,164. 18 deaths have been recorded thus far, with the most recent deaths occurring over the past 48 hours.

https://avas.mv/en/86738