Sri Lanka: Authorities ease curfew measures and domestic travel restrictions from May 26 /update 17

Event

Following the end of strict lockdown restrictions in place over the Eid al-Fitr holiday period on Tuesday, May 26, Sri Lankan authorities have announced that curfew measures and domestic travel restrictions will be eased. The decision comes after a slowing in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection rate, with most new reported cases predominantly involving returning foreign nationals. From May 26, a curfew will be in place between 22:00 and 04:00 (local time) until further notice. Inter-provincial and inter-district travel will once more be permitted, except in Colombo and Gampaha, where travel will still be restricted. Individuals must continue to socially distance and wear face masks in public. Those who violate the guidelines will face fines or arrest.

The National Election Commission announced that the parliamentary elections, initially scheduled for Saturday, April 25, will now be held on Saturday, June 20. Health authorities are anticipated to announce guidelines for the elections in the coming days.

As of Wednesday, May 27, there have been 1319 confirmed cases of COVID-19 cases nationwide, with ten associated deaths. Further international spread of the virus is expected over the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.