By Rathindra Kuruwita

Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath yesterday urged people not to travel during the long weekend to places where a large number of people would gather.

He said that Thursday (04) was a public, bank and mercantile holiday and it was likely that people would take Friday off and extend it to a long weekend.

“It’s better if you don’t go on trips. If you are going, don’t visit places where there are many people. Over 500 Covid -19 cases are reported daily and we know that we are still in the danger zone.

The rate of reduction in infections has slowed down greatly since we reopened. In fact, in the last week or so, there has not been a drop in cases,” he said.

Dr. Herath said that many events, including weddings, funerals and religious activities were taking place in the country. He urged people to avoid such gatherings.

“A lot of religious events are taking place around the country, and we urge organisers only to invite a few people. And we urge the people not to attend these events if you have any COVID symptoms. People have let their guard down. If we are not careful, there will be another spike in cases and we will have to go for a lockdown. The economic and social impact of this, at a time when the schools are just reopening will be devastating,” he said.