Srilanka, June 12 — Health authorities have confirmed that two individuals have died due to complications from the new COVID-19 variant currently spreading across Sri Lanka, according to Prof. Dushantha Medagedara, Chief Professor of Medicine at the Northwestern Medical Faculty.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau (HPB) yesterday, Prof. Medagedara stated that data from the Sri Lankan Institute of Virology shows that between 9% to 13% of patients presenting with respiratory symptoms are currently infected with this new strain.
He reassured the public that the new variant is low in severity, with minimal harmful effects for most individuals. However, he emphasized that the virus could pose serious risks to older adults over 65 and those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions.
“While the overall situation in Sri Lanka is not alarming, and there’s no cause for panic, vulnerable groups should exercise caution,” Prof. Medagedara advised.
