Male: The Maldives government said that 15 healthcare workers from Manadhoo, Noonu Atoll were placed under self-isolation after they came in close contact with an 83-year-old woman, who died due to the virus.

Speaking at the virtual press conference held at the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), Communications Undersecretary at the President's Office Mabrouq Abdul Azeez said that the 15 workers were identified as close contacts of the 83-year-old woman, who sought treatment for non-COVID-19 related health complications, but was later tested positive.

HPA's Epidemiologist Dr. Ibrahim Afzal said the patient was asymptomatic during her visit, but samples were collected, which later came out positive for the virus. The patient was moved to Male when her condition deteriorated.

Mabrouq stated that the isolation measures were taken to ensure the safety of healthcare workers on the island and the Noonu Atoll Hospital. As a result, the operating hours of the hospital have been reduced.