Lambda variant cases could be found at any time

• The most dangerous virus at present is Delta, not Lambda
• Health authorities are on high alert on the matter
• Strict adherence to health rules can protect us from any variant of COVID-19

By Sheain Fernandopulle

The Health Ministry said there was the possibility that COVID-19 patients infected with Lambda variant could be found in the country at any time.

However, Deputy Director-General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath said Sri Lanka had not yet reported any case of Lambda variant at the moment.

“It has to be noted that such cases can be detected in Sri Lanka at any time. The health authorities are on high alert on the matter,” Dr. Herath said.

He said that there were no extraordinary measures to be taken to contain the Lambda variant but to strictly follow the health guidelines and practices.

“We are also on alert on returnees and travellers who visit Sri Lanka from whom the virus could enter the country. We have taken all the measures to prevent the virus from entering the country, Dr Herath said.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Medical Association President Dr. Padma Gunaratne said the most dangerous virus at present is Delta, not Lambda.

“The way the virus spreads is the same despite it being Delta or Lambda. Strict adherence to health rules can protect us from any kind of variant of COVID-19,” she added.

We are also on alert on returnees and travellers who visit Sri Lanka from whom the virus could enter the country. We have taken all the measures to prevent the virus from entering the country