No move to hide or alter COVID statistics: Health Ministry

Referring to discrepancy in the official count of infected patients released to the media, Deputy Director-General of Health Services Dr Hemantha Herath said there is no move to hide or alter statistics related to COVID-19 infections and deaths.

Addressing a media briefing, he said there had been some duplications following the number of Antigen tests being carried out per day increased in contrast to the number of PCR tests.

“Hence, there were occasions where the result of the same person was added to the count resulting in duplications. This is not something that happened all of a sudden but gradually,” he explained.

“The hiccups and shortcomings that occurred in calculations have been rectified by now after discussing the matter with relevant officials in Gampaha where some miscalculations have occurred,” he added.

Dr Herath also that Chief Epidemiologist Dr Samitha Ginige would make a comprehensive explanation on the relevant issue next week.

However, he reiterated that there is no move to hide or alter COVID statistics. (Sheain Fernandopulle)