• “The Western countries are the highest to be battered by Omicron where over 100,000 cases were reported daily. However, Sri Lanka had a minimum effect of Omicron”

 By Sheain Fernandopulle

Despite the number of daily COVID-19 cases surpassing the 1,000 mark for 27 consecutive days since January 30 owing to the spread of the Omicron variant, health authorities said Sri Lanka had only faced a mild impact of the variant.

Speaking to Daily Mirror, Epidemiology Unit Director Dr. Samitha Ginige said Sri Lanka was not badly hit by Omicron unlike other countries.  

 “The Western countries are the highest to be battered by Omicron where over 100,000 cases were reported daily. However, Sri Lanka had a minimum effect of Omicron,” he pointed out.

 “It is true that infections, hospitalization, ICU admissions, and oxygen dependency rose considerably during last month. However, we managed to overcome the situation as everything was within the affordable limit,” he stressed.     

 When asked what led to such a situation, Dr. Ginige said it is solely a result of the successful vaccination drive completed by the time the Omicron variant started entering the country. 

“However, the situation could be changed in the long run, if people fail to continue with the momentum of getting the booster dose as they did when obtaining the second jab,” he added.

 Thus, Dr. Ginige urged people to get the booster shot without being deceived by myths, as it further enhances one’s immunity.

• the situation could be changed in the long run, if people fail to continue with the momentum of getting the booster dose