Speaking at a media briefing held today (30) Chief Epidemiologist at the Epidemiology Unit Dr. Sudath Samaraweera stated that a decrease in the coronavirus spread within the Colombo Municipal Council limits could be observed in the future.

There are currently 23,484 COVID cases reported in Sri Lanka including the 496 new cases that were identified yesterday (29).

The National Operational Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak stated that the highest number of patients, which was 167 was reported from the Colombo District. From the Gampaha District 56 patients were identified, while 53 patients were reported from the Puttalam District.

Accordingly, the number of patients associated with the Minuwangoda Brandix factory and the Peliyagoda fish market increased to 19,946. Among them, 13,594 patients have recovered thus far. The total number of recoveries stands at 17,002, while 6,366 patients are still receiving treatment at the hospitals.

Meanwhile, after it was confirmed yesterday (29) that three persons who had visited the Dambulla Economic Center were infected with the virus, steps were taken by the Health Division of the Dambulla Municipal Council to conduct PCR tests on 50 selected employees. Another 34 employees who worked in three shops at the Economic Center were also directed to self-quarantine

However, farmers and traders visiting the Economic Center complained regarding the inconveniences they are facing as the hand-washing facilities at the premises were removed. The drainage system in front of the main road had been removed due to repairs and the Economic Center Management Trust was yet to come up with an alternative solution.