• Although the COVID-19 situation in the country has reached a slightly controlled level, it does not mean that Sri Lanka is safe from the virus

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

The next couple of weeks could be crucial in determining the impact of the COVID-19 situation in Sri Lanka, Chief Epidemiologist Dr.Samitha Ginige said.   

Addressing a news briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau yesterday, he said the behavior of people during the ongoing festive season would be crucial.  

“Although the COVID-19 situation in the country has reached a slightly controlled level, it does not mean that Sri Lanka is safe from the virus. It’s not. We are not out of the woods yet, he said.   
“While new relaxations followed a marginal decline in fresh infections, positivity rate and mortalities, it is imperative that we maintain the downward trend while opening up more economic activities, Ginige added.  

However he said the health consequences of opening up more economic activities would be visible only after a fortnight or so.  

Talking about the threat of Omicron, Dr Ginige said they could only delay such cases entering the country.  
“As every other country is battling against Omicron, Sri Lanka may have to witness a spike in cases if people take the gravity of the situation for granted. Thus, we should brace ourselves and give priority to receiving the booster shot and following basic health guidelines,” he underscored.  

While saying that they had noticed reluctance shown by people in receiving their third dose, Dr Ginige urged people to get themselves boosted as it provides extra protection against the coronavirus.    

• Talking about the threat of Omicron, Dr Ginige said they could only delay such cases entering the country