“Act with responsibility”, public told
High risk of COVID-19 spread during New Year, so take all precautions, urge health officials
Astrong call went out once again for everyone to be extra careful and take the basic preventive measures against COVID-19 as the week of the New Year celebrations dawned.
Expressing concern about crowds gathering in many places for shopping, Health Promotion Bureau Director, Dr. Palitha Karunapema, told a media briefing that even though the country is seeing a decline in the COVID-19 infections and there is control of the disease, avadanama (risk) has not reduced.
“Safeguard yourself and your family by not going to crowded places and when you have to leave home wash your hands frequently, wear a face-mask and keep a distance from others,” he said.
The same sentiments were echoed by the Deputy Director- General ( Public Health Services I), Dr. S.M. Arnold who sought people’s support to prevent another COVID- 19 wave striking the country.
Picking up the guidelines issued by the Director- General of Health Services with regard to celebrating the New Year in a safe manner, he said these guidelines are meant to make people aware about what behaviour would prevent the spread of disease during the festivities. They have been issued under the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance and if anyone flouts them, they can face legal action.
“People may think it is just a guideline, but it has legal teeth. Limit numbers at celebrations and both organizers and participants in the festivities should ensure that the guidelines are followed,” said Dr. Arnold, adding that health officials are unhappy about large crowds gathering when shopping etc. which is kohomathma honda ne (not good at all).
He said that the health authorities alone cannot prevent the spread of COVID-19 and sought public support.
“Act with responsibility,” urged the DDG, appealing to people to prevent large infections occurring two- three weeks after the New Year. It is better to prevent it. “Otherwise, we may regrettably have to say, ‘We told you so’!”
He added that there is a drop in infections due to control measures and public support, but if safeguards are loosened, there will be a rise in numbers. There is collective responsibility to prevent this. Uthsava samaya avadanam kalayak (The festive season could become a risky time for the spread of COVID-19).