• Locking down the country is not the only solution to stem the spike in Covid cases
• People’s cooperation is vital in the endeavour to combat the disease

By Ajith Siriwardana  

State Minister Sudarshini Fernandopulle said yesterday that the lockdown would not be effective if people do not behave responsibly and fail to follow health practices.  

She told reporters after an event in Colombo that locking down the country is not the only solution to stem the spike in Covid cases and said people’s cooperation is vital in the endeavour to combat the disease.  

“Lockdown alone will not be effective if people don’t follow health practices such as wearing face masks, maintaining one-metre physical distance and refrain from visiting crowded places. The spread of the virus cannot be stopped by locking down the country alone,” she said.  

The Minister also said if people behave responsibly, spread of the disease could be prevented.
She said a large number of people are receiving treatment in hospitals and under home-quarantine and requested people including the Sri Lankan migrant workers to contribute in any possible means to facilitate the treatment of the patients.  

“This is a time we need the support of the people in the country and from the expatriates. Make your contribution to the nearest hospital. People’s contribution is vital at this critical juncture,” she said.

• A large number of people are receiving treatment in hospitals and under home-quarantine