Next couple of weeks extremely decisive, says Epidemiology Chief

29 December 2021 08:05 pm - 12 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The next couple of weeks could be crucial in determining the impact of the COVID-19 situation in Sri Lanka, Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige said.

Addressing a news briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau today, he said the behavior of the people during this ongoing festive season would be crucial.

“Although the COVID-19 situation in the country has reached a slightly controlled level, it does not mean that Sri Lanka is safe from the virus. It’s not. We are not out of the woods yet, he said.

"While new relaxations followed a marginal decline in fresh infections, positivity rate and mortalities, it is imperative that we maintain the downward trend while opening up more economic activities, Ginige added.

However he said the health consequences of opening up more economic activities would be visible only after a fortnight or so.

Talking about the threat of Omicron, Dr Ginige said they could only delay such cases entering the country.

“As every other country is battling against the Omicron, Sri Lanka may have to witness a spike in cases if people take the gravity for granted. Thus, we should brace ourselves and give priority to receiving the booster shot and following basic health guidelines,” he underscored.

While saying that they had noticed reluctance shown by people in receiving their third dose, Dr Ginige urged people to get themselves boosted as it provides extra protection against coronavirus. (Sheain Fernandopulle)

Comments - 12

Curious Cat Wednesday, 29 December 2021 08:24 PM

You are doing all the talking. What happened to the head of the task force? Has he resigned and also accepted?

Kikazaru Wednesday, 29 December 2021 08:31 PM

Prior to very long and culturally significant holiday, the Sri Lanka health authorities make this statement. It is no live the sheep boy shouting Wolf Wolf.

Anne Karunaratne Wednesday, 29 December 2021 08:59 PM

What are you talking about when health guidelines have been further relaxed at a most crucial time like a festive season! Public transport is OVERCROWDED, passengers standing almost pasted to each other, huffing and puffing wearing masks, stuck in the traffic! None of you doctors move about like the way the common man does, do you??

Sunamihora Wednesday, 29 December 2021 09:24 PM

My dear Sri Lankans,. Get your booster shots, wear masks, stay away from the crowds. Otherwise you will regret. Lord Tirupathi

Tupac Wednesday, 29 December 2021 10:04 PM

Cancel all 31st night functions ! Only talking nonsense

Fatima Lai Wednesday, 29 December 2021 10:38 PM

For a moment I thought why doctor talking about the economy

vince Wednesday, 29 December 2021 11:07 PM

same old same old. "The next few weeks are crucial". Yes, we know that. We are no fools unlike 225 in the island in the lake.

A Thursday, 30 December 2021 01:07 AM

Pandemic is ending . Omicron Is mild like flu look at Data and talk . Don't talk like fools. Let us get with our life now.

Ram Thursday, 30 December 2021 02:59 AM

"Next Couple of Days Extremely decisive" I believe Dr Ginige's prediction is for the country's leaders. If the prediction answers all will be safe except the leaders. Cheeeers!

simon Thursday, 30 December 2021 07:36 AM

Every day is crucial for all if us.... the fear of being another Hati or north Korea!!!when the common is wondering where to get his next meal... these jokers come with statements

Roshanaly Thursday, 30 December 2021 11:08 AM

That means they are expecting more strikes, demonstration and rising cost of living within two weeks.

Gamage Thursday, 30 December 2021 01:27 PM

85% vaccinated sir, why ? arent the vaccines working ?? :D

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Next couple of weeks extremely decisive, says Epidemiology Chief

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