Community Specialist of the Family Health Bureau Dr. Sanjeewa Godakanda says the number of coronavirus cases and deaths are on a gradual increase.
Speaking at a media briefing today, Dr. Godakanda said simultaneously expectant women contracting the virus has increased while some incidents of women succumbing to the virus have been reported.
Dr. Godakanda said the World Health Organisation has recommended that expectant women, who contract COVID-19, must seek immediate medical attention.
He also noted that the increase in numbers is a warning that the number of cases and deaths could increase further in future.
Dr. Godakanda said failure to understand this development will result in negative repercussions.
Meanwhile, journalists questioned if expectant women will be administered a booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Responding Gynaecologist Dr. Chaminda Mathota said the booster shot is being administrated at present to health workers and other frontline workers.
Dr. Mathota said an expectant woman in this group, can receive the booster shot without hesitancy.
He added a majority of expectant women at present are vaccinated as they received the vaccine prior to conceiving.
Dr. Mathota also stated that they recommend expectant women to obtain the vaccine when they learn of their pregnancy.
He claimed that accordingly they can obtain the vaccine during any point of their pregnancy, whether during the first 12 weeks, the final 12 weeks or when breastfeeding.
