Bio-secure bubble is not absolutely foolproof, says Sri Lankan virologist

By Bipin Dani

Like any other cricket fan Dr. Jude Jayamaha also wants cricket to resume globally, with the least amount of risk from the COVID-19 coronavirus, but the Consultant Virologist said the proposed bio-secure bubble was only secure as long as those in it limit their exposure to those outside.

Dr. Jayamaha is attached to the Medical Research Institute in Colombo and his views were sought by authorities on how and when cricket could resume in Sri Lanka.

Without elaborating on his feedback to the authorities, the renowned virologist, speaking exclusively, said, "Lovely game of cricket has suffered in the hands of COVID19 pandemic, players and fans alike."

"But now players can train in bio bubbles but should ensure that they don't go outside the hotel during the quarantine period."

"The Bio-bubble is not absolutely foolproof but better to minimize exposure of other members of the group. But in case one gets positive, the whole group needs to be quarantined for a further period."

As per Ministry of Health regulations, 14 days of mandatory quarantine period has been recommended for any person who arrives in Sri Lanka including sports teams.

Negotiations between Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are on, to find a middle path. 

Players will not use saliva but the ICC has allowed them to use sweat.

"Saliva contains live SARS coronavirus-2 which can be transmitted if applied on the cricket ball. Virus has not been detected in sweat so far," the doctor added further.

The Test series between the Sri Lanka and Bangladesh teams, when it happens in the near future, will be played without the fans. Even the Lanka Premier League (LPL) may not have spectators.

"Fans can only come when the cases are reported low, which is difficult to predict at this moment. Most probably in 4 to 5 months' time when the virus has done its round around the globe," he concluded.