The Public Health Inspector’s Union of Sri Lanka says stricter travel restrictions must be imposed promptly to control the increasing number of COVID-19 patients and fatalities.
Speaking to media Chairman of the Union Upul Rohana said loss of life will continue to increase as a result of being hesitant to reach decisions.
He noted over 2,500 COVID-19 cases were reported for the fifth consecutive day, while over 90 COVID-related deaths were reported for the fourth consecutive day yesterday.
He added the number of deaths reported daily has now exceeded 100.
Rohana stated despite various efforts the prevailing situation will worsen rapidly over the next 14 days.
He stressed therefore prompt measures must be taken to ensure the caseload doesn’t become unbearable to the health system.
Rohana noted all public gatherings will have to be suspended in coordination with the economy, to minimise the economic loss, while travel restrictions must be strictly imposed between provinces and districts.
He stated summoning employees to office for non-essential purposes will also have to be suspended.
Upul Rohana said if such measures are not taken promptly to control the rising case numbers, the country will face a major disaster.
Upul Rohana further stated the truth about COVID-19 cases and deaths reported daily must be revealed to the public, to ensure the public directs attention towards the current situation.
He claimed it is apparent that the true data pertaining to COVID-19 patients and deaths at grass root level is not revealed at national level.
He noted people haven’t understood the severity of the current situation due to the failure to report the true statistics.
Upul Rohana therefore urged officials of the Epidemiology Unit and the Ministry of Health to reveal the statistics to the public, in a transparent manner.
He added failure to do so will also lead to the public losing faith in data released by the health sector.
He reiterated that understanding the severity of the current situation and acting in a transparent manner will also help contain the prevailing situation.
