The Ministry of Health says health units have not lost control of the coronavirus situation in the country.
Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath speaking at a media briefing today said, if health units lost control of the virus it would have spread rapidly.
Dr. Herath noted if one positive patient infects two others, the caseload being reported daily should double.
He stated the possibilities of the coronavirus spreading is being controlled, adding therefore health units have been able to ensure positive cases were at a minimal.
Dr. Herath added if 3,000 positive cases were to infect two people each within a five-day period, the number of infections would have doubled to 6,000 and subsequently increase to 12,000.
He said while this situation has not arisen, the present coronavirus situation is very critical.
The Director General added social and economic factors must be considered when reaching decisions pertaining to a lockdown, adding that the best alternative must be considered.
Dr. Herath claimed the issue cannot be only considered from a medical standpoint.
He noted as the health unit, they will explain best as to what alternative steps should be taken during this period.
