With COVID-19 spreading rapidly in several Asian countries including India, Sri Lankan health authorities are also paying close attention. Foreign media have reported cases of coronavirus infections in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and India.
According to foreign media quoting medical authorities, the virus spreading in this wave is a subvariant called JN.1, which is a descendant of the Omicron variant.
“We Can’t Say It Won’t Come to Sri Lanka”
Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, stated that the country has taken steps to increase PCR testing nationwide to determine whether the rapidly spreading new COVID variant in Asian countries is spreading in Sri Lanka as well. He advised the public not to panic unnecessarily, but also mentioned that this does not mean the virus will definitely not enter the country, during a press briefing held on May 28.
“We held the main discussion yesterday, gathering the teams from the Epidemiology Unit and other related groups. At this moment, there is no cause for public panic. But that does not mean the virus will not come to Sri Lanka. There is a noticeable increase in COVID cases, particularly in Asian countries.”
Measures Taken to Prevent Virus Spread
In a recent announcement, Dr. Anil Jasinghe said that, due to factors such as reduced community immunity, a rise in COVID-19 cases can be observed in several Asian countries. However, considering the current situation, the Ministry of Health is preparing at a national level to control the spread of the virus and has intensified necessary steps to protect public health.
“No Current Increase in COVID Cases in Sri Lanka”
The announcement also stated that routine respiratory surveillance, including clinical sample testing for COVID-19, continues uninterrupted in selected hospitals nationwide, and according to this surveillance, there has not been a recent increase in COVID-19 patients.
Dr. Anil Jasinghe emphasized in his statement the need to consistently practice basic hygiene habits such as frequent hand washing and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, as well as maintaining proper respiratory etiquette.
Should You Wear Masks and Wash Hands?
Given the increase in COVID cases in several regional countries, BBC Sinhala asked Dr. Kasuni Athapaththu, Secretary of the Public Health Specialists’ Association, about how Sri Lankans should protect themselves and what health practices should be followed.
“COVID is a type of virus that belongs to the SARS virus family. From time to time, these viruses spread among people. Besides COVID, other respiratory viruses show common symptoms. These viruses spread through droplets and fluids in the respiratory tract, so there are standard methods to prevent their transmission.”
“When COVID was spreading widely, wearing masks and maintaining social distancing became essential. Currently, if someone has a cough or cold, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow or use a tissue or handkerchief and dispose of it properly, as well as keep their hands clean. If these basic steps are followed, it can prevent the spread of COVID and other respiratory diseases.”
People With Symptoms?
“If someone has fever or cold symptoms and is going to crowded places, wearing a mask is good for the protection of others. Though wearing a mask constantly is no longer recommended, more emphasis should be placed on simple actions like handwashing and keeping surfaces clean.”
How Should Unvaccinated Individuals Protect Themselves?
“Vaccines provide artificial immunity by introducing a weakened virus into the body to develop immunity.”
“During the period when COVID was widespread, most people got vaccinated, which contributed to the overall good level of health protection. However, unvaccinated individuals do not receive the personal protection that comes with vaccination.”
“For those who haven’t been vaccinated, frequent hand washing, wearing a mask if around people with symptoms, and keeping surfaces clean are good safety measures.”
Are Vaccinated People Completely Safe?
“COVID is just one member of a large virus family. It’s possible that new virus types emerge over time. Whether existing immunity is adequate depends on the specific virus strain circulating at the time.”
“Studies are conducted to determine if people have developed adequate immunity to the currently circulating strains.”
Advice for Overseas Travelers
“It’s important to avoid touching shared surfaces as much as possible, wash hands frequently, use a mask in crowded places, stay away from people showing symptoms, and generally follow protective measures. Many countries consider COVID vaccination status for travelers. If symptoms develop abroad, seeking medical attention is recommended.”
What to Do if Arriving From a Country With High COVID Spread?
“During periods of active COVID spread, travel guidelines were regularly updated. Anyone arriving who develops suspicious symptoms should consult a doctor.”
“It’s also important to notify the area Medical Officer of Health (MOH), Family Health Worker, or Public Health Inspector.”
Guidelines for Those Who Work With Tourists
“Those working regularly with tourists should be extra cautious, especially as respiratory diseases are spreading in other countries as well. Maintaining tourist records is very important as it helps track disease spread and plan for emergencies.”
“If you are in an air-conditioned vehicle or a poorly ventilated area with people showing symptoms, it is important to wear a mask.”
How Should People With Chronic Illnesses and the Elderly Protect Themselves?
“Those with chronic illnesses or elderly people are at higher risk for complications from any infection. Therefore, it is very important to continue any necessary medications and maintain proper nutrition.”
“If symptoms like cough, cold, or other respiratory issues appear, these individuals should be even more careful than others. Since their immunity is lower, there is a higher risk of complications if they contract the disease. If there’s any suspicion or contact with a confirmed patient, prompt medical attention is very important.”
