May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry has announced a series of enhanced precautionary measures following renewed international concern over the spread of the Ebola virus in parts of Africa.
Health authorities stated that the government has activated a comprehensive five-step preparedness strategy after the World Health Organisation (WHO) raised alarm over outbreaks reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring Uganda.
Director General of Health Services Dr Asela Gunawardena said the move was intended to strengthen the country’s ability to detect and respond swiftly to any potential health threat linked to international travel or imported infections.
As part of the new preparedness framework, surveillance procedures at airports and other entry points have been intensified, with health officials instructed to closely monitor travellers arriving from affected regions. Medical teams have also been placed on alert to identify possible symptoms at an early stage.
The National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) has reportedly upgraded its emergency response readiness to manage and isolate suspected patients if necessary, while the Medical Research Institute (MRI) has expanded its laboratory preparedness to carry out specialised diagnostic testing.
In addition to frontline medical preparations, the Health Ministry said the Epidemiology Unit would continue to track developments overseas and maintain regular coordination with the WHO to assess evolving risks and response strategies.
Dr Gunawardena stressed that Sri Lanka remains categorised as a low-risk nation for Ebola transmission under current WHO assessments. He also assured the public that there was no immediate cause for alarm, noting that the country’s healthcare system had already taken all key preventive measures to minimise potential risks.
Officials further urged the public to rely on verified health information and avoid spreading rumours or unnecessary panic as authorities continue monitoring the global situation closely.