Secretary to the Ministry of Health Dr. Anil Jasinghe has confirmed that no novel variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, have been detected in Sri Lanka.
In a special statement addressing the current COVID-19 situation, Dr. Jasinghe noted that specimens tested by the Medical Research Institute (MRI) in May 2025 confirmed the continued presence of previously identified sub-lineages of the virus. However, recent tests showed no evidence of new variants or increased disease severity.
According to Sri Lanka’s Respiratory Surveillance System, 3% of respiratory samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in 2024, peaking at 9.6% in May that year. So far in 2025, the average positivity rate stands at around 2%, with a slight recent uptick. Notably, an increase in reported COVID-19 cases was recorded in both May 2024 and May 2025.
Dr. Jasinghe also highlighted global trends, citing World Health Organization (WHO) data indicating a rise in COVID-19 activity globally since February 2025. Several Asian countries have reported notable surges in cases, according to the International Respiratory Surveillance System.
While ongoing surveillance and research continue in Sri Lanka, the Health Secretary emphasized that seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, are typical during this period, particularly under prevailing weather conditions.
“There is no need for unnecessary panic,” he said. “Individuals experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms should not fear hospital admission. However, anyone having difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.”
Public Health Guidelines Reinforced
Dr. Jasinghe underscored the importance of maintaining proper respiratory hygiene and general health practices to curb the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. He advised the public to:
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Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing
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Avoid touching the face with unclean hands
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Practice regular hand hygiene using soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
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Wear a mask if experiencing symptoms
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Avoid crowded places unless necessary
Special Care for High-Risk Groups
The statement also urged heightened caution for high-risk populations, including:
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Older adults
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Pregnant women
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Infants and young children
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Individuals with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, cancer, renal disease
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People undergoing immunosuppressive therapy
“These groups are more vulnerable to complications and need extra protection,” Dr. Jasinghe concluded.
