Authorities deliberate halting home quarantine for expats if final PCR tests prove negative: Army Chief

• MeasureS taken to free people residing at flats in isolated areas
• Discussion over allowing private sector to perform antigen testS

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Authorities are considering the possibility of halting the mandatory home quarantine process which Sri Lankan expatriates undergo upon the completion of the quarantine process.   

Accordingly if the decision is finalised, Sri Lankan expats will no longer be required to undergo a 14-day home quarantine period, if they test negative after PCR tests conducted following the mandatory quarantine period, Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva said in an interview with a private TV channel.   

He said expatriates returning to the country are being sent to serve the quarantine process at government managed quarantine centres or hotels following PCR tests conducted on them upon arrival at the airport. He said this makes for a lengthy quarantine process of 28 days in Sri Lanka.   

The Army Commander said authorities are deliberating the possibility of doing away with the home-quarantine process.   

“Those who are undergoing the 14-day mandatory quarantine process at hotels or quarantine centres would be sent home, if they test negative at the completion of the quarantine period. Those who test positive, would be sent to hospitals.” the Army chief said.   

He said they are hopeful that this move would be implemented soon, adding that the Health Services Director General will issue a special statement in this regard.  

• Nearly 1,000 PCR tests were carried out in Randiya Uyana housing scheme in Mattakkuliya and Mihijaya Sevana scheme in Modara
• One person from each household underwent PCR tests or antigen tests