The Maldives has begun screening travelers arriving from regions affected by Ebola and Hantavirus outbreaks, although authorities say the risk of the diseases entering the country remains low.
Speaking at a press briefing held today, President’s Office Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) said authorities have started screening passengers arriving at Velana International Airport as a precautionary measure.
Shareef said relevant agencies remain on high alert due to the spread of infectious diseases in different parts of the world.
“Although the risk is low, authorities are working on alert. Travelers entering the Maldives, especially those arriving through the airport, are being screened while monitoring both diseases,” he said.
He added that the Maldives had previously implemented strong precautionary measures in response to global disease outbreaks and that authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
The comments come as Ebola cases continue to spread in Congo and Uganda, while Hantavirus cases have recently been identified from a cruise line operating in South America.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified both outbreaks as public health concerns requiring close monitoring. Maldives’ Health Protection Agency (HPA) also confirmed it is closely observing developments related to the diseases.
According to HPA, the possibility of Ebola or Hantavirus entering the Maldives remains very low. However, the agency has advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel to regions where the diseases are currently spreading.
No suspected or confirmed Ebola or Hantavirus cases have been reported in the Maldives so far.
