Total COVID-19 cases rise to 3,281

• Five persons test positive for virus yesterday 
• Active cases drop to 208
• 17 persons discharged on recovery

Five persons tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday, bringing the total number of cases to 3,281.

Of the total number of confirmed cases, 1,309 are Sri Lankan returnees from abroad and include the five Sri Lankan returnees who tested positive on Thursday. The remaining imported cases consist of 54 foreigners.

Of the local cases, 950 are Navy personnel and their close contacts and 650 are persons connected to the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre.

The Epidemiology Unit states that the number of active cases dropped from 215 at 10 a.m. on Thursday to 208 yesterday. Of those currently receiving treatment, 75 are at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) and 67 are at the Welikanda Base Hospital. Thirteen of the patients are foreigners.

The number of active cases dropped with the recovery of 17 persons, which brought the number of recoveries to 3,060. According to the Epidemiology Unit, 11 persons were discharged from the Welikanda Base Hospital, three persons were discharged from the NIID, and three persons were discharged from the Iranawila Hospital.

There are also 28 persons suspected of having COVID-19 under observation at various hospitals.

Meanwhile, 320 persons left quarantine centres yesterday having completed the process. A total of 42,582 persons have been released from quarantine centres thus far and 5,895 persons remain in 59 centres managed by the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Navy, and Sri Lanka Air Force.

The Sri Lanka Army stated that 52 persons from Qatar, 30 persons from Japan, 22 persons from Dubai, and seven persons from Australia arrived in the island yesterday and have been directed for quarantine.

At a media briefing yesterday, Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Samaraweera addressed concerns regarding the Colombo International Book Fair (CIBF) currently being held at the BMICH. He stated that, based on previous years, the CIBF attracts large crowds of all ages from various parts of the island.

“This year, health authorities have given approval to hold the CIBF and has issued certain regulations,” Dr. Samaraweera said, explaining that it was thus vital that the Sri Lanka Book Publishers’ Association, the organisers of the CIBF, ensure COVID-19 regulations are strictly adhered to. These regulations require visitors to wear face masks and wash their hands when entering and exiting the premises.

In addition to this, there cannot be crowding in stalls or the exhibition premises. Failure to adhere to regulations could pose a significant risk to society and health authorities will be making sure the organisers and visitors comply with regulations.