1 January 2021 03:35 pm
Sri Lanka should follow scientific methods in combating COVID-19 pandemic than going after mythical beliefs, Environment Ministry Secretary former Director General of Health Dr. Anil Jasinghe said today.
Dr. Jasinghe said some people in the country are going after mythical beliefs, despite the presence of scientific methods and added that what the Sri Lankans should do is, not to go after myths, but to follow the scientific methods to combat the deadly pandemic.
“Various new findings are taking place all over the world to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. Though, some people in our country pin their faith in scientific methods, a certain group seems to be going after mythical beliefs, despite the presence of several scientific methods,” he added.
Dr. Jasinghe expressed these views while commencing his duties at the Environment Ministry in the New Year.
He said the COVID-19 vaccines should at least be given to 70% of the people if we are to face the pandemic.
“At least 70% of the people should be provided with the vaccine to maintain a healthy immunity in the society. This is an arduous task. It would be highly satisfactory if we can manage to provide the vaccine to at least 50% of the people.
The manufacturers will provide 20% of the vaccines free of charge to people. All the countries in the world would attempt to buy the vaccines. So, countries like us have to strive to buy them,” he said.
He said the Companies that manufacture the vaccines have to expedite their productions otherwise, poor countries may not get the priority. Then, it would become an obstacle to combat this virus. (Ajith Siriwardana)