However, health authorities say the situation has not escalated into an epidemic level. District Director of Health Services Sumith Manatunga stated that investigations are currently underway to determine the nature of the illness.
Due to the rapid spread of the flu-like viral infection among students in the area, four schools in the Deniyaya Education Zone were closed yesterday (07) and today (08) as a precautionary measure.
According to health officials, a special medical team from the Epidemiology Unit of Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry is expected to visit the affected area to conduct further investigations and provide recommendations.
Southern Province Education Secretary N.K.R. Pathirana said that a decision regarding the reopening of the schools will be taken based on the advice provided by the medical experts.
Meanwhile, Chief Epidemiologist at the Ministry of Health, Specialist Dr. Palitha Karunapema also commented on the viral flu situation, noting that authorities are closely monitoring developments.
