Influenza A virus: Specimen to be tested

Nadira Gunatilleke

Arrangements will be made to test the specimen obtained from the influenza affected closed and sterilized ICU at the Castle Street Maternal Hospital, and re-open it after confirming its safety, Director General Health Services, Dr. Palitha Mahipala said.

According to Dr. Mahipala, only one ICU at the Castle Street Maternal Hospital was closed after the Influenza A virus

was found although various other viruses have been found at other hospitals, such as Mahamodara, Colombo National Hospital etc in the past. "It is a common phenomena in the world and not all viruses are dangerous. Similarly in the past, a committee of experts were appointed on the issue and arrangements have been made now to implement its recommendations.

"Only two pregnant mothers died of complications, while eight others who were infected recovered. The experts' committee headed by the Castle Street Maternity Hospital Director had representative from the IDH, MRI, NHSL, Epidemiology Unit of the Health Ministry etc.