New health guidelines issued for public and work-related activities
November 30, 2021 08:41 pm
The Director-General of Health Services has published new guidelines for public and work-related activities to be followed from the 01st to 15th of December.
In a press release, Dr. Asela Gunawardena noted that there is still a risk for escalation in COVID-19 transmission due to cluster formation, although significant control of the epidemic in the country has been achieved.
Proper adherence to the health guidelines has given more responsibility to the Medical Officers of Health (MOH) for regulation and monitoring at the ground level, he added. “The contribution and active engagement of the relevant ministries is very important to create the inter-sectoral relationship and awareness needed to support this task successfully.”
As per the guidelines, a maximum of 1/3 of the usual hall capacity – not exceeding 200 guests – is allowed for indoor wedding receptions. Meanwhile, 250 guests are permitted for outdoor ceremonies.
Funerals should be held within 24 hours after the body is released to the family members or relatives. Only 20 individuals can attend the funeral at a given time.
With regard to private gatherings, the health services chief stated that a maximum of 1/3 of the usual hall capacity – not exceeding 100 persons – are given permission. A maximum of 10 people can attend a gathering at a private residence. However, private gatherings organized outdoors are disallowed.
Restaurants are meanwhile green-lighted to accommodate a 1/3 of the usual capacity – not exceeding 100 persons – for dining in. For outdoor arrangements, 150 people in total are permitted.
Schools and higher education institutions including universities will function as decided by the Education Ministry and the University Grants Commission, respectively. Day-care centres and preschools will also remain open during this period.
The Health Ministry has given the nod for tuition classes to conduct lessons with 50% of the usual capacity, but only for Ordinary Level and Advanced Level students.
The guidelines issued by the Director-General of Health Services are as follows:
