Public behaviour is key to prevent, emergence of third-wave: GMOA

The possibility of emergence and/or prevention of the COVID-19 third wave depends on the behaviour of the general public during the Sinhala/Hindu New Year season, the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) said.

GMOA media spokesman Dr. Samantha Ananda said failure to impose travel restrictions paved the way for a large gathering of people at shops and shopping malls in Colombo during the festive season and it does not bear any sign of a healthy atmosphere where the current pandemic situation in the country is concerned.

He said in a situation where COVID cases are consistently reported in the country, more cases could be reported from the community.

"It seems that the health instructions have been violated and the question has arisen as to whether it is possible to maintain good health in the country after the festive season in such a situation," Dr. Ananda said.

"Special steps should be taken to prevent the spreading of the virus when operating transport facilities for the commuters to leave Colombo during this seasonal holidays," the GMOA spokesman said.  

There is a distinct possibility of the virus transmitted to other parts of the country, he said.

However, no steps have been taken by the Health Ministry's technical committees to control the spreading of the virus and, therefore the commuters should take extra care when using public transport, Dr. Ananda said.

"The tendency of the people is also not encouraging. Therefore, swift technical decisions should be taken and the responsibility lies in the hands of the people. Because the country cannot go for a lockdown at this stage. 

People should simultaneously act responsibly while enjoying their freedom," Dr. Ananda added. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)