The general public has been requested not to panic considering the prevailing situation as all possible measures are being taken to contain the spread of the virus and mitigate the situation, Chief Epidemiologist Dr Sudath Samaraweera said yesterday.

“As of now, the amount of cases being reported form the Minuwangoda factory cluster is comparatively reducing,” he told a news briefing.

However, he stressed that people must comply with health guidelines and urged prompt measures should be taken if they were found with any respiratory diseases.

Dr. Samaraweera said although positive cases were reported from the hospital system, pertinent measures had been taken to prevent them from mixing with the community.

He also said people were of the opinion that the virus would spread to the entire society in the wake of a considerable rise in cases being reported from the Minuwangoda Apparel factory within three days.

“However, the health and security authorities were prompt in identifying the cases and directing them to relevant hospitals. Now, we are in the process of identifying cases linked to the Minuwangoda Apparel factory workers,” Dr Samaraweera added. (Sheain Fernandopulle)