Rise in influenza cases observed in Sri Lanka, health officials say

The Epidemiology Unit says an increase in influenza cases has been observed in Sri Lanka in recent weeks.

Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Palitha Karunapema has urged the public not to be unduly alarmed by the situation.

He made these remarks while addressing a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau.

Dr. Karunapema said the surveillance system had detected an increase in influenza cases over the past three to four weeks.

“By last week, around 35% of the samples tested had been identified as influenza cases. This indicates that influenza is responsible for many of the cough, cold and fever cases currently spreading in the country.

However, the illness generally resolves within three to four days with treatment, without causing major complications. Therefore, the public should not be unduly alarmed,” he said.

He further cautioned that influenza could lead to complications among pregnant women, young children, older adults and people with non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease.

The Chief Epidemiologist further explained that influenza spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through contact.

He stressed that people infected with the virus should stay at home and rest for two to three days to help prevent its spread.

Frequent washing of hands with soap and wearing a face mask when infected can also help reduce transmission, he added.