Sri Lanka on ALERT level 3 - Circular on activities and permitted functions issued - Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle

Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle State Minister of Primary Health Care, Epidemics and COVID Disease Control has issued a set of guidelines to be followed leading up to 31 May 2021.

Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, stated that a decision has been reached NOT to allow ANY public gathering during the upcoming month, 
in response to an increase in the spread of COVID-19, adding the quarantine period of two weeks will also be re-enforced.

The COVID-19 guidelines that were enforced earlier under ALERT 3 will be re-enforced until the end of May 2021 to control the situation.

These guidelines include the number of guests for weddings limited to 50, funerals limited to 25, and to be conducted within 24-hours.

Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle noted that steps will be taken to isolate the Grama Niladhari Divisions and villages where COVID-19 cases are reported in high numbers.

She further URGED the people to limit movement and be vigilant of the prevailing situation since the virus can spread through asymptomatic patients

The COVID 19 situation in the country is subject to change from time to time and the level of activity permitted and the number of people engaged in these functions will need to change.

The Ministry of Health introduced the DReAM set of major precautions to be taken in response to COVID 19 and these are applied in the guidelines mentioned. It is re-emphasized that strong observance of DReAM is required

D- Physical Distancing, no gathering, mainly stay at home,
Re- Respiratory Etiquette,
A- Aseptic practices (hand wash, hand sanitizing )
M – proper use of face mask

The alert level system is introduced based on an understanding of public and work settings in Sri Lanka.

According to the current epidemiological situation after the New Year, some restrictions need to be imposed to reduce the risk of transmission. Functions permitted as per the country alert level III are given below.