Tight Restrictions again ? : Health DG raises concern

 

Health Ministry data regarding Covid-19 shows an increasing trend in the number of infections reported in the country on a daily basis.

Accordingly, after 20 days the number of Covid infections detected daily in the country crossed the 600 mark on the 5th as 628 new cases were reported.

Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena said that if the number infections increases significantly, restrictions will have to be imposed.

“We have reports of a number of incidents where the virus is spread at parties and weddings. If people behave irresponsibly, we will have to re-impose restrictions, albeit reluctantly.” He said.

Meanwhile, the health authorities have drawn attention to the importation of the antiviral drug manufactured by the US company Merck, which is used instead of vaccines to control Covid-19.

Even though it has not yet been approved by the World Health Organization, the United Kingdom became the first country in the world to approve it.

“We have referred the matter to the expert committee and will make recommendations in the near future.” The health DG said.

“We are paying attention to this. Already a number of countries in the world have placed orders for it. If we do not place an order soon, it will be too late for us to get the medicine.” State minister Channa Jayasumuna said regarding the antiviral drug.

Meanwhile the administration of Pfizer vaccine as the third booster shot continued yesterday as well. Accordingly, the number of third vaccine doses given so far is 44,111.