Currently, there is no risk of a new COVID-19 variant spreading in Sri Lanka, so there is no need to create unnecessary fear,” states the Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, Specialist Dr. Anil Jasinghe, issuing a statement based on the data from the Epidemiology Unit.
The media had reported an increase in the number of COVID-19 infections in several Asian countries in the past few weeks. The Ministry Secretary’s statement notes that this situation could be due to several factors, including a decrease in the community’s immunity to the disease. Taking this into account, the Ministry of Health has intensified the necessary steps at the national level for preparedness and to protect public health.
“There is no risk of a new COVID-19 variant spreading in Sri Lanka- Ministry of Health and Mass Media”
According to the Secretary’s statement, integrated respiratory surveillance, where clinical samples for COVID-19 are tested, is continuously ongoing in selected hospitals across the country. The surveillance currently does not show an increase in COVID-19 patients. The statement also points out that the necessary laboratory surveillance system to identify potential epidemic situations in Sri Lanka early is also actively functioning.
The statement further mentions that while there may be periodic increases in other respiratory illnesses (e.g., influenza) as well as COVID-19, the current risk to the general public is low. However, it is important to pay special attention to high-risk groups such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic diseases.
The statement issued by Specialist Dr. Anil Jasinghe, based on the data from the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, further emphasizes that basic hygiene practices and respiratory etiquette, including frequent hand washing and covering the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, should be consistently maintained.
The Ministry of Health is well-prepared to provide accurate and timely information to the public, and the hospital system is also prepared to face any potential epidemic situations.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Mass Media requests the public to pay attention only to the official information provided by the health authorities regarding the changes in the COVID-19 situation over time.
