The Maltese health authorities said that it is implementing “all the necessary measures and response actions required for the COVID-19 virus.”

The authorities had initiated screening of all passengers arriving in Malta from affected countries.

However, the authorities said that in view of the situation in Italy, screening is being enhanced by introducing thermal screening at points of entry.

The Ministry for Health said that during this coming week, thermal screening cameras will be installed at the Malta International Airport, whereby all inbound passengers will be screened.

This will also be implemented in cruise liner and catamaran terminals. Thermal screening is a mode of screening for the large number of people passing through points of entry.

Any persons who will be identified as having a fever will be assessed further, the Ministry said.

The health authorities have appealed for cooperation from the general public for screening of people for early identification of cases.

The public are being urged to use the helpline set up on 21324086, or their doctor, if they have travelled to affected areas and have any respiratory symptoms within 14 days from their return and not to go directly to health centres or hospital.

The health authorities also appeal for cooperation in public health measures being taken in the investigation of suspected cases, isolation, contact tracing and quarantine.

The Ministry said that “up to the present time, 2 suspected cases have been tested and resulted negative and 3 persons are in quarantine after possible contact with a confirmed case on the Westerdam cruise liner. All 3 contacts have remained asymptomatic.”

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