News
Lanka monitors Nipah virus amidst Kerala outbreak, assures no immediate threat
By Chaminda Silva
In light of the recent Nipah virus outbreak in the South Indian state of Kerala, health authorities in Sri Lanka are closely monitoring the situation while reassuring the public that there is no immediate threat within the country.
Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige acknowledged the emergence of the virus but pointed out that Nipah virus is not a novel threat, as it was first identified in Malaysia back in 1998. Dr. Ginige elaborated on the virus’s history, highlighting that since the initial outbreak, sporadic cases have occurred in various regions, including Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines.
“Bangladesh, in particular, witnessed almost annual outbreaks between 2001 and 2013, with most cases linked to contact with fruit bats,” Dr. Ginige explained. While acknowledging the virus’s presence, he emphasized that Sri Lanka is maintaining vigilant surveillance to stay informed about any new developments regarding the virus.
Nipah virus typically manifests symptoms between four and 14 days after exposure, with the most common symptoms being fever, followed by headache, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and vomiting.
The transmission of Nipah virus can occur between humans and other animals, primarily through the consumption of products contaminated by bat urine, saliva, or droppings. Furthermore, human-to-human transmission can transpire through direct contact with infected patients and their bodily secretions, including urine, blood, and respiratory droplets.
Nipah virus is classified as an RNA virus, a category known for its propensity for genetic mutations. These mutations facilitate the virus’s ability to adapt to new hosts and respond to challenges, including those posed by the immune systems of their hosts.
As Sri Lanka remains on high alert, health authorities are working diligently to monitor the situation, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public while keeping a watchful eye on the evolving dynamics of the Nipah virus.
Police urge motorists who intend to use the Ella – Wellawaya Road to use alternative roads as there is a severe vehicle congestion due to inclement weather condition.
The oil anointing ceremony for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year was held on April 16 at the historic Rajamaha Viharaya in Kolonnawa, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
Following the chanting of pirith, the oil anointing ritual was carried out at the auspicious time of 9:04 a.m., by the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Kolonnawa Dhammika Thero.
Speaking after the ceremony the Prime Minister said that:
“The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is one of the most important festivities in our country. It is a celebration with our families, reflecting our traditions and customs while strengthening the ties.
This festival leads the path for renewing unity, love, and bonds stronger. These values enrich a country. Development of a country is not limited by one-dimensional; a true development includes spirituality, relationships, and connections. The reason why we uphold these customs in such ceremonies is to remind ourselves of the significance and to pass on their value to future generations.
Therefore, today marks a significant day. Throughout this week, we came together and engaged in various activities. Followed by, the next event will mark the leaving for employment at the auspicious time and we should start working collectively to rebuild the country.
I wish everyone a New Year that is prosperous, peaceful, joyful, full of strengthened relationships, and most importantly, safe for all.”
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha, and attended by the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Divisional Secretary to Kolonnawa Priyanath Perera, Municipal Secretary Nelum Kumari Gamage, and the residents of the area.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Latest News
Heat Index at ‘Caution Level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts today [16]
Warm Weather Advisory Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology for 16 April 2025
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the table below and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated. Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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