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Probe
on mystery disease in south After four people died of mysterious diseases and dozens were hospitalized, the Health Ministry's Chief Epidemiologist Nihal Abeysinghe said investigations were continuing and the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) was not ruled out though no evidence had been found so far. In recent years, the SARS epidemic has killed or affected hundreds of people in China and South East Asian countries. The epidemic had also prompted the World Health Organisation to take urgent remedial action. Reports said Health Ministry experts were yesterday carrying out investigations to ascertain the links between the deaths and poultry farming in southern areas. Some other experts were meeting in Embilipitiya last afternoon to review the tests and take remedial or preventive action. Officials said a clear report was expected within two days but fear and panic spread in Matara, Embilipitiya and other areas with some hospital workers using face masks to protect themselves. Matara hospital director K.I. Premathilake said six patients, including three from the same family, were admitted on Friday after complaining of colds and coughs. The four mystery deaths including that of a 17-year-old girl sitting the O/L examination were reported from the Beliatta, Embilipitiya and Matara areas. |
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