On the same day, the Maltese government lauched a programme of mass events in Valletta for the Christmas season, the local health authorities confirmed three elderly persons have died after being found positive for Covid-19. This brings the total of victims up to 81.
The Ministry for Health announced that the 3 deaths in 24 hours; a 79-year old man was confirmed positive on the 1st of November, an 87-year old man and a 75-year old man whowere confirmed positive on the 3rd of November. In the last 24 hours, Malta has registered 153 new coronavirus cases. The number of active cases stands at 2,041 after 89 patients recovered from the virus.
Robert Abela, the Maltese Prime Minister has ruled out any form of lockdown. Opinion polls show a majority of Maltese are against a lockdown. “At this time, we want to keep the Christmas spirit alive while continuing to help and support the local industry. We believe that this balance can be achieved through an ongoing economic activity even when it comes to Christmas shopping, while people keep following the necessary precautions,” said Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli.
However, the Medical Association of Malta, MAM, has condemned the attitude of Prime Minister Robert Abela and of Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli, saying they are deliberately ignoring scientific advice in the thick of a pandemic. “COVID-19 will not kill Christmas but will kill more vulnerable Maltese people,” said the Association.
The Medical Association of Malta noted the increase of serious illness and deaths from COVID-19. Further to the three deaths confirmed in the last 24 hours, there are 80 very seriously ill patients at Mater Dei Hospital with coronavirus, excluding the 3 smaller hospitals, 12 of which are in intensive care.
(ITALPRESS/MNA).
