MALE, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- The number of COVID-19 cases in Maldives has crossed 4,000 after recording the highest daily rise in cases amid a resurgence of the virus, local media reported here Monday.
As many as 215 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed on Sunday, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said, raising the country's total case count to 4,164.
An 89-year-old Maldivian national died of COVID-19 at the Hulhumale Medical facility on Sunday, marking the second virus-related death within 24 hours and raising the country's virus death toll to 18.
According to the HPA, 22 establishments, including nine shops, seven cafes and restaurants, four salons, a market, and a spa were closed down by authorities on Sunday for failing to comply with official health guidelines.
Meanwhile, state media citing the Heath Emergency Operating Center (HEOEC), reported that 58 frontline workers, comprising 37 health officers and 21 police officers, have been diagnosed with the virus in the month of July alone.
A total of 64 health officers and 60 police officers have been infected since the outbreak began.
Maldives has been experiencing a resurgence of cases since the country began phasing out lockdown restrictions, including lifting a travel ban and welcoming foreign tourists on July 15.
Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen said last week that the continuous rise in COVID-19 cases may require lockdown restrictions to be reimposed, though it would be highly damaging to the already battered economy.
According to the HPA, 10 islands in the country currently have active cases, and the public in the capital region of Greater Male have been mandated to wear a mask that covers the nose, mouth, and chin while outdoors.
Maldives currently has 1,490 active cases of COVID-19, out of which 84 have been hospitalized, according to the HPA. Enditem
