In a joint effort to curb the spread of the virus, the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA), along with the Association of Medical Specialists (AMS), the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) and the SLMA Intercollegiate Committee (SMIC) have made several recommendations.
The recommendations have been mentioned as follows:
- Implement widespread vaccination in necessary amounts
- Strengthening the health responsive system by directing resources towards supplying beds, oxygen and increasing ICU capacities.
- Strengthening Laboratory facilities islandwide, making sure PCR tests are readily available
- Implementing stringent covid-19 restrictions as per the Extraordinary Government Gazette notification on controlling COVID-19, published in October 2020
- Implementing lockdown processes in areas, based on scientific evidence of reported covid-19 cases.
- Ensuring continued supply of essential services and economic hubs, based on strict guidelines.
- Authorise the isolation of families at home. Encourage the management of asymptomatic cases at home, with regular monitoring by health care professionals.
These recommendations were mentioned in a letter addressed to the president. In the letter the officials further highlighted the gravity of the prevailing situation, drawing attention to the rapid use of health sector resources and the strain being placed on the health sector in Sri Lanka.
They warned that the death toll could reach grave amounts, if the government fails to implement measures stringently and efficiently.
