Sri Lanka Sees Modest Uptick in COVID-19 Cases, Health Ministry Urges Caution
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – June 8, 2025 – Sri Lanka is experiencing a slight increase in COVID-19 cases, primarily driven by circulating sub-lineages of previously identified variants, the Ministry of Health confirmed this week. While health officials emphasize there is no need for public panic, they are urging citizens to re-adopt precautionary measures to curb the spread of the respiratory illness.
The recent rise in cases aligns with a global increase in SARS-CoV-2 activity reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) since February 2025. Sri Lanka’s Respiratory Surveillance System noted a slight uptick in positivity rates for SARS-CoV-2 in May 2025, mirroring a similar pattern observed in May 2024. The average positivity rate for the virus so far this year stands at approximately 2%.
According to Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health, the currently circulating variants are not novel and have not shown evidence of increased severity or complications. “There is no cause for alarm,” Dr. Jasinghe stated in a recent media briefing, “and there is no evidence of a new variant of COVID-19 infection spreading in Sri Lanka.”
However, health authorities are not complacent. In response to the global and local trends, the Ministry of Health has intensified preparatory measures to ensure national readiness. This includes increasing PCR testing at state hospitals, utilizing existing facilities at the Medical Research Institute (MRI), and the Kandy and Galle General Hospitals. This proactive approach aims to closely monitor the situation and identify any potential shifts in the virus’s behavior.
While no immediate mandates for measures like face masks have been issued, health officials are strongly advising the public to return to basic hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing and covering one’s nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Special attention is also being directed towards vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic diseases, as they remain more susceptible to complications from respiratory infections.
The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and avoid the spread of misinformation. The Ministry of Health maintains that the hospital system has the capacity and is prepared to handle any possible future outbreaks, assuring the public of their vigilance in monitoring disease trends and providing timely and accurate information. As Sri Lanka navigates this seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses, a collective effort in practicing caution and adhering to public health advice will be crucial in minimizing the impact of COVID-19.
