Second wave to last another one month

4 November 2020 06:31 am

It would take at least another one month to bring the Minuwangoda-Peliyagoda cluster under control, Dr. Hemantha Herath, Deputy Director General (Public Health) said yesterday.

Speaking to media, he said considering the situation at present, the situation where cases were being reported in hundreds would prevail for another one and half weeks.  

“Accordingly, the cluster would be completely cleared in another six weeks,” Dr. Herath said.  

However, he stressed that it is absolutely pivotal to maintain the same momentum of the health, security officials and the general public.

Referring to the reports circulated on social media that the Health Ministry is passing the responsibility of a spike of Covid cases to the people, he emphasised that they have not evaded the responsibility but have been working hard to contain the virus in the country.  

Meanwhile, Dr. Herath said the number of Covid-19 cases being reported in the country has comparatively declined.  

“This does not mean that a higher number of cases would not be reported in future. However, as far as the current scenario is concerned, the number of cases has somewhat decreased.  

He also said positive cases had been reported from unexpected areas. Thus, if this situation increased, there may be a possibility to experience a surge in cases,” he underlined.  

In addition, Dr. Herath said there are over 1000 beds in 49 hospitals still vacant to treat Covid-19 patients.

“The number of remaining beds can fluctuate with the detection of fresh Covid cases,” he added. (Sheain Fernandopulle)