COVID-19 situation under control despite rise in respiratory illnesses

Colombo, June 13 (Daily Mirror) - Health authorities have confirmed that the COVID-19 situation in the country remains under control despite a noticeable increase in respiratory illnesses being reported in recent weeks.

Consultant Community Physician at the Epidemiology Unit, Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana told the Daily Mirror that while COVID-19 continues to be considered another respiratory illness within the broader surveillance system, no targeted data collection is currently being conducted for COVID cases specifically.

“COVID-19 is now one of several respiratory illnesses we monitor. Although we are not collecting separate data on COVID patients at the moment, we are closely watching the overall situation,” Dr. Liyanapathirana said.

Further, he said that with a rise in influenza and other respiratory infections during this period, the health authorities have strengthened their nationwide surveillance of respiratory illnesses to detect and respond to any unusual trends.

Meanwhile, the public is adviced to remain vigilant, practice good respiratory hygiene and seek medical attention if symptoms such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing develop - particularly in high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children and those with chronic illnesses.