The Ministry of Health Sri Lanka has urged the public to follow health and safety guidelines to help prevent the spread of suspected Meningitis cases reported from several parts of Sri Lanka.
Hansaka Wijemuni stated that health authorities remain on alert regarding the reported cases.
According to the Deputy Minister:
- Initial patients were reported from Deniyaya
- Additional patients have now been identified in:
- Rikillagaskada
- Diyathalawa
- Kandy
Health officials are currently monitoring:
- Whether new patients emerge
- Possible spread linked to existing cases
Dr. Wijemuni explained that the illness appears to be a type of influenza-like viral infection showing meningitis-related symptoms.
The Medical Research Institute Sri Lanka is reportedly continuing laboratory monitoring to identify the specific virus category associated with the illness.
The Deputy Minister urged the public not to panic unnecessarily, stating that preventive and containment measures are already being implemented.
Reported Symptoms
Health authorities identified the following symptoms associated with meningitis:
- Fever
- Severe headaches
- Vomiting and nausea
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to sunlight
The Ministry also warned that the illness may spread through:
- Close physical contact
- Contaminated drinking water
- Exposure in crowded environments
Public Health Advice
To reduce the risk of transmission, the Ministry advised the public to:
- Drink safe and clean water
- Wear face masks where necessary
- Avoid crowded places
- Seek medical attention if symptoms develop
Authorities say investigations and field-level monitoring of the viral illness are continuing.
