New COVID variant on the loose can enter SL, warn PHIs

• Almost all variants detected earlier in other countries were found in SL
• Sri Lanka on high alert over new variant
• People urged to stick to health guidelines

By Sheain Fernandopulle 

There is a risk that the new variant named A.30, which can evade COVID-19 vaccines, will enter Sri Lanka, the Public Health Inspectors’ Union said yesterday. 

Union Head Upul Rohana told Daily Mirror that almost all COVID-19 variants detected earlier in other countries were found in Sri Lanka within a short period of time.

“Likewise, this variant too can be found in the country at any point,” he said.
“In a situation where COVID safety measures are going for a toss, if this new variant enters the country and begins to spread, there will definitely be a catastrophic situation,” he warned.

Hence, the PHIU Head urged the public to stick to the health practices as it is the only option to keep the new variants at bay.

Against this backdrop, State Minister Channa Jayasumana said Sri Lanka is on high alert over a new coronavirus variant.

• In a situation where COVID safety measures are going for a toss, if this new variant enters the country and begins to spread, there will definitely be a catastrophic situation