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Paws and hands in harmony

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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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Five Exciting New Categories from Mackly and SEDA

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Sharmila Srikumar , Founder Mackly and SEDA

Mackly, sleep and loungewear brand that caters to both kids and moms, is synonymous with passion, vision, and dedication. It has quickly become a powerhouse in the industry, opened its flagship retail store at the One Galle Face Mall in 2021 recently.

Sharmila Srikumar, the founder, is a visionary entrepreneur and devoted mother of three daughters. Mackly originated from Sharmila’s personal quest for the perfect pajamas for her children. Baby Clan, a sub-brand at Mackly, offers newborn essentials extending up to the age of two. Renowned for its 100% breathable cotton material, Mackly Sleepwear undergoes meticulous testing for safety, comfort, and style. Srikumar emphasizes, “We run world-class quality checks on our products related to wearability factors and root out the presence of harmful chemicals such as phthalates.”

Mackly was initially conceived as a mother and child sleepwear brand, but due to overwhelming consumer demand, the brand evolved to include exciting new collections for teens, women, and men.

Today, Mackly and SEDA stand as a testament to Sharmila’s creative focus, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality.

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Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

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Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International Women’s Day with a powerful event themed ‘Women at the Workplace,’ bringing together influential women leaders to inspire and empower attendees.

Sheraton Colombo’s International Women’s Day celebration reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to promoting gender equality, empowerment, and creating an inclusive environment that nurtures and uplifts women professionals.

The celebration featured keynote speeches’ from Amanthi Perera, Head of Social Sustainability at MAS Holdings, Sharnila Henry, Partner at Deloitte Sri Lanka, and Roshanie Jayasundera Moraes, CEO of Link Natural Products Pvt Ltd. They shared their inspiring journeys and invaluable insights.

The event also provided a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from trailblazers who have excelled in their respective fields. The speakers’ stories of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering determination served as a powerful reminder of the incredible potential women possess.

Female associates of Sheraton Colombo Hotel had the opportunity to participate in interactive activities, attend a women’s health session, and capture cherished moments during a photoshoot session. The celebration also incorporated uplifting elements, such as a dance warm-up and high tea, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy.

Amanthi Perera, a sustainability champion, shared her journey advocating for environmental and social issues while navigating the challenges women face in balancing multiple roles. She encouraged women to celebrate their achievements, seek help when needed, and embrace small steps that drive meaningful change.

Addressing the participants, she said “My passion was for the environment and sustainability. My journey has been one of continuous growth as a woman wearing multiple hats. When doors closed, I found new opportunities. Moving away from home for my studies taught me independence and perseverance. While striving for dreams, ask graciously, accept rejections, and let go. Small changes make a big difference, so speak up about achievements with pride. Give selflessly, seek help, and find your unique life-work balance. Most importantly, choose a fulfilling career path.”

Sharnila Henry, a leader in the auditing and accounting field, emphasized the importance of financial independence and mindful decision-making. She inspired attendees with lessons learned from her parents on being a ‘people’s leader’ and maintaining a healthy work-life balance through trust and commitment.

Recalling her journey she said, “Workplace challenges taught me to embrace multitasking and manage change positively as a learning opportunity. I am grateful to my parents for instilling the values of being a ‘people’s leader’, loving yet firm – lessons I pass to my own children. Financial independence brings security, so strive for it before long-term commitments. Be mindful in decisions, considering others’ perspectives. Do not stress over perfection; focus on doing your best work. Prioritize quality family time, be there for milestones. Gain your employer’s trust through commitment to maintain work-life balance. Set your heart on goals, taking small steps with perseverance to achieve them.”

Roshanie Jayasundera Moraes, a seasoned corporate leader, celebrated the strength of womanhood and the resilience to handle difficult situations. She highlighted the power of building relationships, continual learning, and the importance of saving and investing for financial stability and independence.

She advised, “Career paths can move laterally or even downwards before moving up again, therefore embrace the journey. As women, we are blessed with inner strength to handle difficulties. Prioritize saving and investing to secure financial stability. Build relationships through hard work; others will support your growth. Prove your worth by outworking everyone. Continuous learning elevates your ascent up the ladder. Let your skill and performance speak for you”

Sheraton Colombo Hotel’s International Women’s Day celebration served as a powerful catalyst. Through inspiring stories shared by distinguished speakers, the participants were inspired with a collective determination to break barriers and uplift one another on the journey towards empowerment and equality.

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Fashion

Creating the looks for CFW

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By Zanita Careem

The Colombo Fashion Week has been a major event in the World of style and fashion.

Although most eyes are on the models on the runaway and the applause is directed towards the designers, but who are the major players behind the scene. We spoke to Ramani Fernando of Ramani Fernando salons who has been part of Colombo Fashion Week from inception. She talks about the pressures of being backstage . Theres plenty to look forward to each day ,from inspiring fashion to avant garde hairstyles,to dazzling make-up She believes Colombo Fashion week is a dazzling spectacular platform of style and creativity.

In Sri Lanka fashion week is the time honoured and highly anticipated tradition presented by Ajay Vir Singh ,founder and president of Colombo Fashion Week. Ramani’s whose career spans decades in the beauty and fashion industry and her name garners the highest praise throughout the fashion week and beyond. The iconic looks of models created by Ramani and her team are far reaching. Each style she crafts comes from deep inspiration and influences the most notable trend of the season.

Ramani’s work at the CFW is highly sought after by the designers. There is always a mixture of excitement, tension, adrenaline time restraints, and it becomes more and more challenging every year Ramani explains.

CFW has been an important event in the fashion calendar and you have been part of it from inception your comments?

For 21 years, I’ve been honored to be a part of Colombo Fashion Week, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lanka’s fashion landscape.

I believe that hair and makeup are integral parts of CFW, playing a huge role in elevating the overall aesthetic of the event while also contributing to the seamless execution of each designer’s vision. As a trusted partner, my team and I have worked closely with designers and models to create stunning looks that captivate audiences and embody the essence of fashion.

If you could go back to your first year of the fashion week. What things have changed since then?

Looking back at my first year at Colombo Fashion Week, several significant changes have occurred. The event has grown in scale and diversity, with increased international participation and a broader embrace of styles. Advancements in technology have transformed how the event is experienced, with a greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion.

In essence, while much has changed since my first year at Colombo Fashion Week, what remains constant is the event’s dedication to celebrating Sri Lankan fashion, fostering creativity and giving the best.

What distinguishes fashion week for you from other shows. Does it bring anything new or particularly influence your style ?

It’s not just about showcasing individual designers or brands but represents a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and styles within the industry. The dynamic atmosphere of Fashion Week, with its multitude of runway shows, presentations, and events, creates an immersive experience that continuously inspires and challenges my own sense of style. Fashion Week serves as a hub for creativity and experimentation, often introducing new concepts, materials, and techniques that influence my personal style.

You as a veteran stylist do a variety of hair styles and make up on different models. How does your process change with each and every model?

As a veteran stylist, I adapt my approach to each model’s unique characteristics and preferences. I assess their hair texture, facial features, and skin type to customize the hair and makeup accordingly. Communication is key to aligning with their vision, and flexibility allows me to address any challenges or last-minute changes. Problem-solving skills come into play when dealing with diverse hair and skin types, ensuring a flawless final look tailored to each individual.

From the first inception of CFW event has styles changed?

Since the inception of Colombo Fashion Week, styles have undoubtedly evolved but over time, the event has embraced a more diverse range of styles and influences. Global fashion trends, as well as the evolving tastes of designers and consumers, have contributed to this shift. Additionally, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion, reflecting broader societal concerns within the industry. Overall, the styles showcased at Colombo Fashion Week have become more dynamic, inclusive, and reflective of the global fashion landscape.

How did you find inspiration to create new looks for every event?

Keeping abreast of the latest fashion trends and attending runway shows provides valuable inspiration. Observing how designers interpret trends and push boundaries can spark creative ideas for new looks.

Can you tell us more about the creative process, how do you create new styles, make up for each model?

The process begins with gathering inspiration from various sources such as fashion magazines, social media, art, nature, and cultural influences.

Once inspired, the next step is to conceptualize the overall theme or vision for the styling.

Each model is unique, with different facial features, skin tones, hair textures, and personal styles. Assessing the models individually helps determine the most flattering and cohesive hair and makeup looks

What do you look for when assessing the new styles on the runaway every year?

Keeping abreast of current fashion trends is essential. I observe how designers interpret and incorporate trends into their collections, whether it’s through color palettes, prints, or design details. Styles that reflect a contemporary aesthetic while also offering a fresh perspective on current trends tend to resonate with audiences.

What can we expect to see from you next?

Overall, you can expect to see my team and myself continue to innovate and inspire, with a dedication to creativity, sustainability, diversity, and personalized styling, we are committed to delivering unforgettable fashion experiences.

Can you describe a typical day during fashion week. What are the best things about fashion week?

Early morning preparation The day often starts early with preparations for the day’s events. This may involve reviewing schedules, coordinating with the team, and gathering necessary equipment and supplies.

Backstage areas are buzzing with energy as stylists, makeup artists, and hairdressers work diligently to transform models into the vision of the designer. This involves quick changes between shows, ensuring that each model looks flawless before hitting the runway.

Fashion week is a prime opportunity for capturing content for social media?

The fast-paced nature of fashion week and the anticipation of seeing new collections and designs create an atmosphere of excitement and energy that is truly exhilarating.

Overall, fashion week is a thrilling and immersive experience that celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation of the fashion industry.

The worst things?

Fashion week can be incredibly demanding, with long hours, tight deadlines, and high-pressure situations. The fast-paced nature of the event can lead to stress and exhaustion, especially for those working behind the scenes.

How do you describe a typical day of hairdressing during fashion week? How do you translate your design and creative ideas into reality?

The day often starts early with preparations at the backstage area. This involves setting up workstations, organizing tools and products, and reviewing the day’s schedule with the styling team.

Before the shows begin, hairdressers assess each model’s hair texture, length, and condition. This helps determine the most suitable hairstyles and any necessary prepping or treatments required.

Hairdressers collaborate closely with designers, makeup artists, and stylists to understand the creative vision for each show. This involves reviewing mood boards, discussing inspirations, and aligning on the desired hair looks for the runway.

Has anything changed, like hairstyles, make up, designer wear, style ?

Yes, indeed, fashion is an ever-evolving industry, and changes are constantly observed in hairstyles, makeup trends, designer wear, and overall style.

Are you proud of your advertisements?

I take pride in long-standing collaborations and successful advertisements, particularly when they represent a commitment to excellence and a positive reputation within the industry. Ramani Fernando salons long-standing partnerships and contributions to events like Colombo fashion wee k and, Ramani Fernando Salons’ 21-year involvement with fashion week has been a strong commitment to the fashion industry and a successful track record of providing hairstyling and makeup services for the event.


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