Male: The Maldivian government declared a state of public health emergency over the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, effective nation-wide, for the next 30 days.

The announcement was made by Maldives Health Minister Abdulla Ameen at a press conference, Sun reported.

Ameen said the public would be informed of the measures which the government planned on implementing in light of this additional authority, as the situation developed.

The decision to declare a state of public health emergency marks the first time for such a move to be made in Maldives.

Ameen urged everyone adhere to the health instructions being issued by government institutions, and to refrain from any and all actions which may cause panic.