Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister of Health Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says the Sri Lankan government is closely monitoring the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant spreading across several countries, including neighbouring India.

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing held today (May 27), the Minister emphasized that while there is currently no severe situation in Sri Lanka, precautionary measures have already been initiated — particularly at entry points like airports.

“There have been some reports from Singapore and India. We are observing the situation closely. So far, there is no indication of a crisis like we saw before, but interventions are already underway at the airport,” Dr. Jayatissa stated.

He added that both health and airport authorities have been placed on alert and are actively screening passengers arriving in the country to minimize the risk of transmission.

Indian media recently reported 1,009 new COVID-19 cases linked to the latest variant, along with four related deaths. This resurgence has triggered regional concern, prompting several countries to ramp up surveillance and preparedness to contain potential outbreaks.