Health authorities in Sri Lanka have urged the Government to remain vigilant and take precautions with regard to the newly detected COVID-19 variant.
The Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) called on the authorities to take necessary measures to prevent the new COVID-19 variant from entering the country.
SLMA President Dr. Padma Gunaratne said precautionary measures must be put in place similar to that which was implemented for previous variants.
Stating that the entry of the variant may be delayed, she said there is no guarantee that it will not enter Sri Lanka.
She added that strictly adhering to the health guidelines and being vaccinated at the right time are the best precautionary measures at present.
Meanwhile, the Public Health Inspectors Association (PHIA) has warned that there are many loopholes through which the new COVID-19 variant could enter Sri Lanka.
Pointing out the system implemented at the airport, President of the PHIA Upul Rohana said the system is fragile and tourists arriving in the country can easily evade the authorities.
Upul Rohana stressed that it was essential that the authorities focus attention on the matter and ensure that tourists do not evade authorities when arriving in Sri Lanka.
College of Medical Laboratory Science (CMLS) President, Ravi Kumudesh also called on the Government to commence the implementation of PCR for arrivals with immediate effect. (NewsWire)