COVID-19 cases jump to 233

The cumulative number of confirmed novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases increased by 15 to 233 today, according to the Health Promotion Bureau.

The Health Promotion Bureau said 15 new cases were confirmed today, the highest on record since the breakout of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Of the 233 cases, only 165 are active cases, with 61 recovered and discharged, and seven deceased.

The latest confirmed cases had associated with those previously infected with COVID-19. All new cases were confirmed whilst under quarantine at designated quarantine centres.

Furthermore, 142 persons are currently under observation for suspected COVID-19 in hospitals.

The Government said last week that 1,455 persons remain in 12 quarantine centres managed by the armed forces.

Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi is optimistic that the Government will be able to identify all individuals infected with COVID-19 by 19 April.