Lesser number of elderly contracted the virus: Health Ministry

The number of elderly people in Sri Lanka contracting COVID-19 is less, Health Ministry Spokesman Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara said today.

He said if this situation changes, the current COVID-19 death toll of 13 could rise.

“Still, no vaccine had been developed against the virus. PCR testing is the only gold standard to identify COVID-19 positive cases. The sensitivity of the PCR test is 70 per cent,” Dr. Bandara said.

He said the number of COVID-19 infected patients had reached 5,600 with the active cases standing at 2,200.

“However, we are still trying to manage the pandemic situation in the country with the support of the people. During the past few months, the people had forgotten that our country was a victim of the pandemic. About 80 per cent do not wear face masks when using public transport and in public places. They did not follow health instructions resulting in the sudden spread of the virus in the country," Dr. Bandara said. “Therefore, we should wear face masks properly and keep in mind to follow the health guidelines." (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)