Still no change to current procedure of cremation: Health Ministry

Ministry of Health says that it has not taken a decision to change the current procedure of cremation of those who succumbed to COVID-19, Health Ministry Spokesman Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara said.

He said the current decision to cremate corpses of persons who tested positive for COVID-19 was taken by the Director General of Health considering scientific and technical reasons both related to the pandemic as well as the soil in Sri Lanka. He said a circular was issued in this regard. As of this moment there is no change in that decision, Dr. Bandara said.

Meanwhile, he said Sri Lanka still has a chance to avert a major disaster if everyone follows safety precautions to avoid being infected.

Commenting on several reports of suicide incidents reported in the county over fear of virus infections, Dr. Bandara said there is no need to be afraid of Covid-19.

“Nearly 80 per cent of COVID-19 patients recovered completely without showing any symptoms. Most of other patients who recovered experienced some complications such as breathing difficulties and fever,” he said.

He said individual commitment is vital to avoid contracting the Coronavirus.(Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya)