Russian tests positive for Covid-19 in Matara

• They were subject to PCR tests earlier at a private hospital

By Sheain Fernandopulle and Krishan Jeewaka Jayaruk   

A 57-year-old Russian staying in a tourist hotel in Polhena, Matara tested positive for Covid-19 on Wednesday, Health authorities said.   

He was among a group of 15 Russians who arrived at the Mattala Airport on September 13 and were staying in the tourist hotel. However, the PCR tests confirmed that the 14 others had not contracted the virus.   Matara District Director of Health Services Dr. Upali Karunaratne said the group of Russians was provided accommodation at the hotel on prior reservation and that they were scheduled to leave the country yesterday.   Investigations revealed that they had been subjected to PCR tests earlier at a private hospital.   According to PHIs, he has gone shopping to two super markets in the area and there were three drivers of a van and two three-wheelers, in which he had travelled.   Meanwhile, Public Health Inspectors and the police are conducting investigations with the army to trace others who associated with the group of Russians since their arrival in the country.

• He has gone shopping to two super markets in the area