Life style

Paws and hands in harmony

Published

5 years ago

2021/07/4

With incidents of animals being tested positive for COVID-19 both locally and in various parts of the world, there is a discourse and public anxiety about potential animal to human and human to animal transmission of the virus. We spoke to several authorities committed to animal welfare and virology to find answers and to dispel unnecessary fears.

by Randima Attygalle

The 14-year-old African Lion, ‘Thor’ of the Dehiwala Zoo, gifted by a zoo in Seoul, was reported to be having severe respiratory signs including breathing difficulties and a nasal discharge. Its loss of appetite and lethargy further worried keepers. On an official request made by the Director (Animal Health and Nutrition), Department of National Zoological Gardens, Department of Medical Microbiology of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya tested the nasal swab specimens of the sick lion for COVID-19. Fecal samples of the infected animal were sent to the Molecular and Nutritional Biochemistry Laboratory (MNBL) at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya. Both laboratories confirmed the lion to be COVID-19 positive. This is the first known case of an animal contracting COVID-19 here at home.

The lion was confirmed COVID-19 positive according to the criteria of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), Prof. N.P Sunil-Chandra, Virologist and Chair of Medical Microbiology from the Faulty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya told the Sunday Island. “The nature of a specimen, whether it is human, animal or of environmental origin, is not going to alter the result. Hence COVID-19 PCR procedure adopted for the respiratory samples of the infected lion was the same as that which is used for human samples,” he said.

While veterinarians and other staff of the Dehiwala Zoo have been tested, further investigations, assisted by zoo authorities, are being carried out to identify the exact source of infection in the lion. Asymptomatic human infection is a very likely source for the infection in the lion, he said.

“Asymptomatic human infection was incriminated as the source infection in the case of a COVID infected four-year-old Malaysian tiger in the Bronx Zoo, USA which was reported in March last year. Infected pet cats have also been reported in Belgium, Hong Kong, USA and Brazil but there is not enough evidence to change the current opinion of the OIE that neither cats nor dogs appear to be able to pass the virus to people,” the senior professor said.

SARS CoV-2 infections in minks in the Netherlands and in Denmark have been reported in close proximity to a region with high incidence of COVID-19 in humans. A mutation of the SARS CoV-2 virus in a mink in Denmark and one of the variant was found in several people, he explained.

In 1918 the world experienced its worst flu outbreak (commonly called the Spanish flu) due to an influenza virus type A strain H1N1 which emerged in birds infected a third of the world’s human population killing over 50 million people. Three more influenza pandemics followed: in 1957 ‘Asian’ flu (A-H2N2), in 1968 ‘Hong Kong’ flu (A-H3N2) and the 2009 ‘swine’ flu (A-H1N1). “Although milder than the 1918 pandemic, these highlight the constant threat of es to human health.

Emergence of SARS CoV-2 virus in 2019 which led to the current COVID-19 global pandemic further highlights the threat of emerging zoonotic virus infections,” observed Prof Sunil-Chandra. He elaborated on the importance of working on ‘One Health’ concept (the collaborative efforts of multiple disciplines working locally, nationally and globally, to attain optimal health for people, animals and the environment) when confronted with emerging zoonotic infections such as COVID-19.

“Climate changes and deforestation affect animal reservoirs of viruses and due these adverse effects animal migration leads to increased interactions in the animal-human interface. This could spread viruses to new locations and across a wider range of domestic and wildlife species including birds and bats.”

‘Spillover events’ from wildlife via vectors or domestic animals are the starting points for many outbreaks, from influenza to HIV and from SARS to COVID-19, pointed out the Virologist. “Therefore, it is natural to have misconceptions among people with pandemic stress about how new diseases jump from animals to human. Although it is theoretically possible that the virus can be transmitted from an infected animal to human, todate there is no evidence for SARS CoV-2 transmission from animals to humans. Mink is the only animal known to have passed the coronavirus to humans, except for the initial spillover event from an unknown species in China.”

According to the OIE, there is no evidence that cats or dogs spread the disease to humans bit it recommends that sick persons with COVID-19 should avoid contact with pets, including petting, cuddling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food, in order to protect their pets during the time of their illness.

Gorillas and chimpanzees are identified as animals that are at very high COVID-19 risk, pointed out Prof. Ashoka Dangolla, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Clinical Studies from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, (FVMAS) University of Peradeniya. Felines such as domestic cats, tigers and lions are at a medium risk he said. “Veterinarians are very familiar with other animal Coronavirus infections in cats. This has been so for several decades. Feline infectious peritonitis is one such condition with respiratory signs in cats. But we must keep in mind that COVID-19 is a novel Coronavirus (SARS CoV-2) which has the ability to mutate into new variants. Therefore, all possible precautions must be taken while extending love and compassion to our pets.”

Since it is known that cat family members can contract the disease from symptomatic and asymptomatic parties, it is advisable to keep away from them if you are COVID-19 positive or suspected of it, Prof. Dangolla advises. “Cats cannot, according to available information, infect humans. But if you do find your cat having respiratory symptoms, it’s always advisable to take the cat to a vet in the area.”

Care should also be taken not to feed monkeys and to dispose of our waste in an irresponsible manner, the senior veterinarian warns. Dogs are of low risk for developing COVID-19. “So far, COVID- 19 positive dogs have not been reported in Sri Lanka though we test all dogs that are being brought into the country for COVID-19. If a household dog shows respiratory signs such as difficulty in breathing, best advice is to show it to a vet.”

Susceptibility of dogs, pigs and elephants to COVID-19 is low whilst ferrets, mink, mice and rats have very low susceptibility, says the veterinarian. Birds have never been reported to be COVID positive. COVID positive Asian elephants have been documented in India, therefore it is advisable not to go near captive elephants if a person is COVID positive or asymptomatic he notes. “If an infected (symptomatic or asymptomatic) person gets close to a healthy elephant, closer than two meters, the elephant may get infected, but there is no report to say that elephants infect people. Sheep, cattle and even dolphins can get infected but they are at medium risk.”

Since our local vets have been working with Coronavirus and the Sri Lanka Veterinary Research Institute has been producing several vaccines against viruses in animals, we can have some hope that the vets would produce a vaccine against COVID in animals if a need arises, says Prof Dangolla.

The Molecular and Nutritional Biochemistry laboratory of FVMAS, University of Peradeniya conducts tests to detect COVID-19 and the presence of SARS-like viruses in animals. Since September, 2020, the lab had been offering services to the Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) to screen hundreds of animals for COVID-19 infection that came into the country. These came as pets through the Animal Quarantine Department at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) which operates under DAPH said Dr. Dilan Satharasinghe, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, FVMAS, University of Peradeniya.

“We have also screened mangroves and toque monkeys as a part of a surveillance programme implemented via DAPH in collaboration with the Wildlife Department and it is an ongoing process,” he said. DAPH and Animal Quarantine Division at the BIA screen all animals coming into the country for COVID-19 infection. Samples are referred to the Molecular and Nutritional Biochemistry laboratory and upon the confirmation of negative results, animals are released to the owners.

The Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) implements disease control programmes mainly through Directorates of Animal Health and Veterinary Research. The DAPH has strong structure throughout the country with 26 Regional Veterinary Investigating Centres (RVICs), one located in each district. The disease control programmes are implemented by its islandwide network of 337 Government Veterinary Offices (GVOs) which come under nine Provincial Departments of Animal Production and Health (PDAPH). The central Veterinary Investigating Centres and the technical divisions of Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) provide referral diagnostic facilities for Regional VICs and GVOs in managing diseases.

Curative and Preventive measures are carried out by the DAPH and PDAPH. Disease investigations, epidemiological studies, surveillance programmes and vaccination programmes are being carried out in managing viral diseases.

Animal Disease Act No.59 of 1992 stipulates that no person can import any animal or animal related product without the permission of the Director General of Animal Production and Health. “This provision is to prevent the entry of any exotic disease to the country. Accordingly, animals, animal products, veterinary products and biological imports are controlled by the DAPH by issuing pre- clearance approval for such imports,” said the Director General of Animal Production and Health, Dr. Hemali Kothalawala.

Quarantine stations are established in ports of entry such as Katunayake, Colombo, Mattala and Jaffna to control imports through air and sea passage. Animal entry is permitted based on negative test certificates of certain given diseases and in high-risk situations animals are being quarantined for a number of days at the quarantine stations or on-farm, explained Dr. Kothalawala. “Apart from these routine protocols, today a COVID-negative certificate is mandatory when importing any animal to the country.”

The Animal Disease Act also requires the Director General of Animal Production and Health to take action to control animal disease spread in the country. Today DAPH has established a diagnostic facility with animal specific RT-PCR antigen kits and an Epidemiological Survey is planned to uncover the factors associated with the COVID-19.

The Veterinary Research Institute (VRI), of DAPH has a long history of vaccine production in Sri Lanka. VRI produces several viral vaccines and bacterial vaccines for the livestock sector in the country. Among the viral vaccines, the most important as Dr. Kothalawala explained, is the one for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) which causes severe milk production drop in cows when infected. The vaccine which was first produced locally in 1964 is now developed using the latest technology to enhance the immune duration and its shelf life. “Presently, 50% of the country’s requirement is produced within the country. Recently approved project on FMD control is planning to expand the capacity by two-fold by end of the next year,” Dr. Kothalawala said.

A viral vaccine for goat Contagious Pustular Dermatitis (CPD) which causes severe production loss and kid mortality is also being produced at the VRI. It also produces a live viral vaccine for New Castle Disease which causes a very high death rate among chicken. While a newly invented vaccine with oil adjutant to give lifelong immunity in birds is ready to release for the industry another vaccine is being produced by VRI as well as Veterinary Investigation Centres for warts in cattle, she noted. Several bacterial vaccines are also being produced at the VRI for deadly diseases in cattle and poultry. A vaccine for tick fever which causes severe economic losses in milk production especially in high producing animals such as cattle and buffalo is also being produced at the VRI.

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Life style

Julie Chung’s graceful goodbye

Published

3 days ago

2026/01/11

Thilina Walpola

Chung

Last chapter in Colombo

Elegant, articulate and amiable, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung reaches the end of her term, with the quiet confidence of a woman who has shaped diplomacy across continents.

In this interview, she speaks with emotional clarity and stately restraint, offering insights shaped by memory, responsibility and a deep respect for the human stories behind public life.

A diplomat of distinction and a fashion icon in her own right, she embodies a modern elegance where intellect meets instinct and presence becomes power. She speaks of her time in Sri Lanka not as a posting, but as a chapter of memory, reflecting with grace on the experiences she will carry forward—memories woven with diplomacy, style and a deep affection for a place that became more than a destination.

As she says goodbye, Julie Chung carries with her not just memories but the very essence of the island: the warmth of its people, the quiet beauty of its moments, and a grace that will remain long after she has left. With an international career spanning Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Washington D.C., she embodies modern diplomacy—polished, perceptive and quietly powerful. She leaves Colombo shaped by its people, moments and connections.

Q: Ambassador, as your tenure in Sri Lanka comes to a close, what moments during your posting stand out the most for you personally and professionally?

A: Celebrating the 75th anniversary of our bilateral relationship was a watershed moment and a time to reflect upon all that we’ve accomplished together- from maritime security partnerships to trade to youth engagement. Opening a beautiful, new U.S. Embassy building was also a highlight, a place where we could really come together and build a community, host our American Centre, and a physical symbol of our efforts to deepen our presence in Sri Lanka. A personal highlight was scuba diving at various wreck sites, including the Godawaya shipwreck from which artifacts were preserved through the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, and marveling at the underwater heritage of Sri Lanka.

Q: How would you describe your overall experience living and working in Sri Lanka?

A: I’ve seen many challenges and difficulties that Sri Lanka has gone through during my tenure, but so much joy, resilience, and pride too. Sri Lankans are very proud of their tourism sites, foods, and cultural heritage- and rightfully so! I saw my role as a bridge builder between our two countries professionally, and I absorbed everything I could personally as well to delve into Sri Lankan culture. And the food–anyone who knows me knows that I have traversed the island trying and loving the amazing food here. From Jaffna crab to lamprais, I am going to go through serious spice withdrawal when I leave. My family enjoyed exploring so much of Sri Lanka with me, and even Martha, my dog loved her walks around Colombo!

: At the top of Pidurutalagala enjoying the amazing view of Sigiriya

Batik U.S. flag created by U.S. Embassy staff

Q What challenges did you face in strengthening US-Lanka relations and how were they overcome?

A: One of the challenges was to overcome misperceptions and misinformation about the United States and personal attacks on me. Holding this position invites a lot of attention and scrutiny, and I got my fair share of that while navigating through the public spotlight. I tried to share my personal stories, relay official positions clearly, and be authentic to the Sri Lankan public, not just as an ambassador but as a human being, a wife, and mother. I sought to engage directly with many communities across the island, not just government-to-government but truly people-to-people, speaking directly with farmers, entrepreneurs, students, speaking to them on my role and the United States role in Sri Lanka. It was not always easy, but I appreciated the candidness of everyone I met. As a Christian, it was also important for me to find places of worship to have fellowship which helped me stay faithful and resilient during the challenging times.

Q: Can you share an example of a cultural exchange, a people-to-people initiative that particularly resonated with you?

A: The return of the Peace Corps to Sri Lanka after a long hiatus was one of my proudest moments. I met young Americans willing to put in the work to learn Sinhala and Tamil, assimilate with local families, teach English at local schools—and in the process, learn from their students, too. It goes to the heart of what the Peace Corps was created to do–bringing Americans and communities together through service, learning, and shared understanding.

Q: Sri Lanka is known for its vibrant culture. Did your experience here influence your personal life or style?

A: I loved learning about the arts in Sri Lanka. I’ve attended the annual Kala Pola art fair where I could interact with both seasoned and up and coming artists and made a few purchases myself. I learned about Sri Lanka’s unique batik making culture and integrated various modern takes to batik design in clothes I wear. Our embassy community visited Sonali Dharmawardena’s batik workshop to learn first-hand about batik making and created a beautiful American flag artwork that hangs inside our embassy now.

: Selfie with Sri Lankan student basketball players during the U.S. Embassy sports envoy program

: Enjoying a cup of tea with fellow climbers at Sri Pada

: Diving at the Godawaya shipwreck which was conserved through U.S. support

Q: Who were your favourite designers or fashion experiences that stood out to you during your time here?

A I’ve loved admiring and showcasing so many talented local designers here, who also became my close friends. I consider them artists more than designers because it really is artistry and it comes from their hearts, reflecting who they are as individuals. Sonali Dharmawardhana, Charini Suriyage, Darshi Keerthisena, Kamil Hewavitharana, and Sammani Pathiranagama have been some of my favorites! I leave with a very full suitcase and I can’t wait to share my love of Sri Lankan design with Americans.

Q How did participating in Sri Lanka’s cultural and social events help in strengthening diplomatic relationships?

Two U.S. C-130s supported cyclone Ditwah response by transporting donated goods across the country

A Diplomacy is not just about having official meetings but diving into a country’s culture and personality; it provides us a deeper understanding and at the same time offers an opportunity to share the immense richness of American culture as well. When we invited our sports diplomacy ambassadors and arts envoys to come to Sri Lanka, it created avenues for more people-to-people connections. Every conversation I had, every trip I took, and every photo I snapped created that tapestry that led to my love for Sri Lanka. I took part in Sri Lanka’s social and cultural events while also creating opportunities for others to engage with American arts and culture.

Q: Were there moments in Colombo’s social scene that brought you joy or surprise?

A: I really enjoyed attending the Royal Thomian cricket match! It was my first ever cricket match and was so exciting to see the fans, the festive mood, and I joined along with the dancing, too. It was nice to see people from all walks of life and political factions come together in such a way for the love of the game.

Q: What memory of Sri Lanka will you carry with you forever?

A: One memory I will always carry with me is how Sri Lankans came together to support one another during the tragic period following Cyclone Ditwah. I was deeply moved by the compassion and solidarity shown at the community level. When we were able to offer $2 million in humanitarian aid and bring two C130 airplanes to deliver supplies, it really made me proud. Personally taking part in some of those flights and talking to the military forces and local communities was memorable. As a diplomat, I believe it’s important we get involved hands-on and not just watch from afar. Seeing Americans and Sri Lankans working side by side, physically unloading goods off of our planes was a powerful reminder that in difficult moments, our partnership is strongest, and that the friendship between our two countries is built on ordinary people and shared values.

Q: If you could relive one day of your tenure here, which day would it be and why?

A: It would be to climb back up to the peak of Sri Pada again with my husband and see the sun rising above the mountains and the shadows of the temple, and take in the natural glory of that moment in such a special cultural place. It was not just the natural beauty, but the friendliness of the pilgrims and fellow climbers who encouraged each other, even me, as I took on that climb. Moments along the journey—sharing a cup of tea or listening to someone’s story—kept me energized.

Q: What are the strongest impressions of Sri Lanka that you will take back with you?

A: Sri Lanka is such a diverse island- from its landscape and tourism sites to its religions, ethnicities, and cuisines. I say this often, it is a magical island that bursts with passion, energy, and a richness that makes every part of the country feel distinct yet deeply connected. I travelled throughout Sri Lanka, by boats, cars, planes, and trains – the sounds, smells, and beauty will stay with me forever.

Q: How would you describe the spirit of the Sri Lankan people to friends and colleagues abroad?

A: The spirit of Sri Lankans is definitely something I’ve come to learn about and admire so much – it goes beyond resilience during tough periods and is reflected in the humor and creativity of its people and traditions. That can be seen through the arts, literature, and even political cartoons. The Sri Lankan people are amazing and have given me memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful for my time here and will carry it with me always.

By Zanita Careem ✍️

Life style

Gilded glamour at Grand Kandyan

Published

3 days ago

2026/01/11

Thilina Walpola

Celebrations with grandeur

The Grand Kandyan transformed into a sanctuary of elegance this past New Year’s Eve, hosting a spectacular gala dinner dance that seamlessly blended tradition with high-energy celebration.

From the moment guests arrived, they were swept into a world of luxury. The hotel and ballroom were meticulously decorated, setting a festive tone that promised an unforgettable night. The evening commenced with a sophisticated cocktail hour in the lobby, where guests mingled before being ushered into the majestic Royal Peacock Ballroom for the main event.

A Symphony of Black and Gold

The ballroom was a sight to behold, draped in a striking theme of black and gold. The color palette exuded sophistication, providing a glittering backdrop for the night’s festivities.

Lavish international buffet

Taking charge of the evening’s proceedings was the charismatic Javed Bongso, whose expert compering kept the energy high. The musical heartbeat of the night was provided by the popular band Lunu Dehi, whose infectious performance immediately filled the dance floor. As the night progressed, DJ Harsha took over the decks, keeping the crowd moving with a seamless mix of floor-fillers.

Prizes and Pageantry

The gala was punctuated by moments of excitement and engagement. Beyond the music, guests participated in:

Multiple Raffle Draws: Featuring a variety of high-value prizes.

Interactive Games: Engaging the audience and adding a touch of playful competition.

Grand Giveaways: Ensuring many guests walked away with more than just memories.

A highlight of the evening was the prestigious crowning of the “Grand Kandyan Queen,” a moment of true pageantry that added a layer of classic glamour to the night’s program.

A Culinary Masterpiece

No celebration at The Grand Kandyan would be complete without a culinary showcase. Guests were treated to a lavish international buffet, specifically decorated for the occasion.

A Global Family Celebration

The Grand Kandyan hotel General Manager, . Thusith Samaraweera, remarked on how wonderful it was to see a vibrant mixture of local and foreign guests coming together. He noted that seeing everyone ushering in the New Year alongside the “Grand Kandyan family” was the perfect embodiment of the hotel’s spirit of hospitality.

The night concluded as a resounding success, marking the start of 2026 with style, spirit, and community.

Life style

“Best International Hotel for Weddings” at Travel+Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025

Published

3 days ago

2026/01/11

Thilina Walpola

Saman Villa

Jetwing Saman Villas, part of Jetwing Luxury Reserves, has been awarded “Best International Hotel for Weddings” at the 14th edition of Travel+Leisure India & South Asia’s Best Awards, held on December 16, 2025, in New Delhi. This prestigious accolade celebrates the resort’s exceptional ability to create unforgettable wedding experiences, placing Sri Lanka firmly on the global map as a leading destination for romance.

The annual India’s Best Awards, driven by reader votes, honours excellence across the travel spectrum, from hotels and destinations to wellness retreats and culinary experiences. This year’s theme, “Passports to Possibility,” highlighted the transformative power of travel and brought together global hospitality leaders for an evening of recognition and inspiration.

Perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, the 27-suite resort is Sri Lanka’s pioneering luxury boutique hotel and a haven for intimate celebrations. The property offers one of the most unique settings on the island: a garden on a rock surrounded by nothing but incredible ocean views. From pre-wedding rituals to gourmet receptions, the property specializes in intimate weddings that feel truly exclusive and deeply personal. Beyond the ceremony, Jetwing Saman Villas doubles as an idyllic honeymoon retreat, offering luxurious private-pool suites, indulgent spa rituals, and romantic dining experiences under starlit skies, making it the perfect beginning to a lifelong journey together.

“We are truly honoured to bring this recognition to Sri Lanka,” said Hashan Cooray, Director of Marketing and Development at Jetwing Hotels. “As the country’s first and leading boutique hotel, this award reinforces Sri Lanka’s true potential as a premier destination for romance and weddings.”

Farrel Blom, General Manager of Jetwing Saman Villas, added, “Weddings are deeply personal, and for us, it’s never just about one evening, but it’s about creating an experience that feels like home. Many couples stay with us for several days, allowing us to be part of their story. Seeing them return for holidays and hearing their heartfelt feedback is the greatest reward.”

With a legacy spanning over half a century in the tourism industry, Jetwing Hotels has established itself as a pioneer in curating unique experiences and offering the best of legendary Sri Lankan hospitality, with the values of passion, humility, tenacity, and the spirit of family being at its core. As a family-owned brand, Jetwing Hotels continues to be a leading advocate for sustainability and responsible tourism, with ongoing initiatives focused on community upliftment, environmental conservation, and resource efficiency. With over 35 properties across the island, the brand’s diverse portfolio includes a range of Luxury Reserves, Premium Hotels, Select Hotels, and Essentials, each offering a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.