The Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, stated that health authorities are currently focusing attention on the Ebola virus, which is spreading globally, as well as meningitis cases reported within the country.

Speaking to the media following a programme held today (01), the Minister said that health authorities are actively working to control the spread of meningitis in the country and have called for public cooperation in this regard.

He further stated that the Epidemiology Unit has given special attention to the Ebola situation and has issued the necessary guidance to relevant health authorities.

Elaborating further, Dr. Jayatissa noted, “This initially began in several African countries. Subsequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it an emergency situation. Since then, the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health has been continuously monitoring the situation and providing necessary instructions to our healthcare system. We are operating accordingly.”

Referring to meningitis cases reported recently, the Minister said that preventive measures were taken from the outset when the disease was first identified. 

He added that during recent ‘Dansals’, the public was advised to provide hot beverages such as tea as a precautionary measure, given the potential modes of transmission.

He further stated that health authorities have managed to control the situation to a certain extent. 

“Although it has been brought under control to some degree, it should not be ignored. The disease has been particularly prevalent among young children. Necessary preparations have been made, and we expect public cooperation to further control its spread,” he added.