Updated 3.45pm

The Health Ministry's Covid-19 helpline is currently down, due to "technical difficulties".

Shortly after 1pm on Monday, the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate shared a social media update apologising for any inconvenience caused.

"We are doing our utmost to rectify the situation as soon as possible," it said. 

The crucial helpline is for people who have symptoms of COVID-19 and is one of the main ways of booking a free test. 

However, people can also register online for a swab test by going to https://covidtest.gov.mt​ and filling in a form. 

The health ministry did not immediately respond to questions about how long the number has been unavailable or when it is expected to be back up and running. 

Extended hours for 153 freephone

Another government freephone, Servizz.gov helpline 153 also reported technical difficulties "linked to third parties" on Monday.

In a statement, the government said some people calling the Public Service of Malta helpline were unable to get through to the operator.

The service, usually available until 4pm, was therefore being extended to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday.  

If you still do not manage to get through, send an email with your query on servizz@gov.mt.

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