There is currently no threat of a new COVID-19 variant spreading in Sri Lanka, and the public should not be alarmed unnecessarily, according to a statement issued by Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media. The statement, based on data from the Epidemiology Unit, was released in response to recent reports of rising COVID-19 cases in several Asian countries.

Dr. Jasinghe noted that the increase in cases abroad could be due to several factors, including reduced public immunity. In light of this, the Health Ministry has intensified national preparedness efforts to safeguard public health, ensuring that all necessary precautions are in place.

According to the Secretary, the country’s Integrated Respiratory Surveillance System continues to monitor clinical samples from selected hospitals nationwide, and current data does not indicate a significant rise in COVID-19 cases. The laboratory surveillance systems remain active and are capable of detecting potential outbreaks early.

While there may be occasional increases in respiratory illnesses—including influenza and COVID-19—the overall risk to the general population remains low at present. However, high-risk groups such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic illnesses should be given special attention.

The Health Ministry emphasizes the continued importance of basic hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Dr. Jasinghe further urged the public to rely only on official information provided by health authorities, as they closely monitor the evolving global and local COVID-19 situation.

Hospitals are on standby, and the Ministry is committed to keeping the public informed with timely and accurate updates.