Another batch of quarantined individuals from the Quarantine Centres in Punani and Kandakadu are expected to leave for their homes tomorrow (26) after completion of the 14-day long quarantine process.

This was revealed during the routine media interaction at the National Operation Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) at Rajagiriya this afternoon (25), attended by Minister of Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Head of NOCPCO, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, and Director General of Health Services, Dr Anil Jasinghe.

Similarly, 144 quarantined individuals in Army-provided buses and trucks left for their homes this morning (25). 

“A total of 3086 individuals, including 31 foreigners in 46 Quarantine Centres are still in quarantine. A total of about 7500 individuals, out of some 20,000 returnees, including those identified during the period (March 1-15) while being in the country are still in self-quarantine or in quarantine at their homes,” said Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva.

The Minister of Health told the conference that not a single COVID-19 positive patient was reported during the first half of the day (25), setting an example to the whole world, compared to world-wide increase of the cases in hundreds and thousands.

“We still appeal the public to adhere to health guidelines given by us,” she urged.

Director General of Health Services, Dr Anil Jasinghe, highlighted the importance of maintaining the continued social distancing at all places. “255 suspected patients are still under treatment and nearly 1500 are closely followed up by the Ministry of Health. 

“It is important that nearly 900 foreigners, now confined to hotels in the Kalutara district continue to be so,” he added.