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Genetic sequencing results were needed as a large number of contacts from Boralesgamuwa remained negative
Many ground level health officials told the Sunday Times that on the advice of the Epidemiology Unit, they conducted lots of random tests to get an early indication of the infection level before the New Year.
In late March and early April, the infection rate was down and even Boralesgamuwa had only a few infections and they were not sure what it was until genetic sequencing was done. Employees of a large workplace close to Avissawella where there had been earlier infections were tested, they said citing an example, but the positivity rate was only 1%.
Referring to a small number of infections in Boralesgamuwa on April 6 where there seemed to be “unusual activity” of the virus, they said that they became alert immediately. However, when they traced a large number of first and second level contacts of those infected, none was positive. So the Epidemiology Unit could not advise strict action, many pointed out.
“We had to await genetic sequencing to make sure that there was a problem,” others said, adding that the genetic sequencing indicated that it was the UK variant on Wednesday (April 28).
| What people can do to protect themselves “We need to take double precautions,” reiterated Consultant Physician Dr. Harsha Sathischandra on Wednesday. Representing the clinicians who are treating COVID-19 patients, Dr. Sathischandra, President of the College of Internal Medicine, told a media briefing organised under the guidance of SLMA President Dr. Padma Gunaratne that people should “stay home as much as possible and venture out only if absolutely necessary”. If you have to leave your home, wear your face-mask properly, not below the nose or below the chin, but properly, he said, adding that the outer area of the face-mask should not be touched. There is a need to change the face-mask after eight hours. Social distancing should be, if possible, not just 1 metre but 2 metres, while hands should be washed frequently if out of home. Dr. Sathischandra assured that the hospitals are ready to treat patients. “Don’t be fearful. We will look after you,” he added. | |