Influenza Death Toll Rises to 20 in South

Influenza Death Toll Rises to 20 in South

The death toll caused by Influenza spreading in the Southern Province has risen to 20., which included 14 children and 6 adults, said the Southern Provincial Health Services Director, Dr. G. Wijesuriya.He further said over 350 patients are still receiving treatment at hospitals.
In the meantime , Sri Lanka Medical Research Institute identified that the deadly flu is caused by Influenza-A virus.
Samples of phlegm collected from the patients have been sent for further tests in Hong Kong.
At the same time, the Director General of Health Services, Dr. Anil Jasinghe said that a committee of specialists has already been appointed to ascertain whether influenza affected patients need any injections.
Despite above steps taken , the GMOA Secretary, Dr. Haritha Aluthge charged that the Ministry has failed to take sufficient action to control flu-related deaths.