He noted that measures are being taken to upgrade the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital, adding that in the event the number of patients increases, measures have been taken to move to another location.

He also urged the public to trust in the official news releases regarding the Coronavirus updates, adding that after a meeting held with the heads of media institutions recently, there was a positive response and positive news related to the Coronavirus are being published. Hence, he appreciated the assistance rendered by the media institutions.

He noted that self-quarantine of those who arrived in the country prior to March 10th is being done domestically and based on information gathered from the airport authorities 4405 follow-ups have been carried out. Among them are 2769 Sri Lankans and 1120 Chinese nationals.

The Health Director General also said that measures are in place to punish those who do not assist in the quarantine procedure. He also requested the public to refrain from attending functions at churches, temples and Kovils and urged the religious authorities to make available running water and soap or sanitizer liquids for those attending to wash their hands.

Currently there are 133 suspected cases being treated at hospitals island wide and nine of them are foreigners.