Sri Lanka Medical Association President Padma Gunaratne said at a press conference in Colombo today that seniors over the age of 60 are more likely to die from the Omicron virus if infected.
Ms. Padma Gunaratne said that since the omicron virus is highly contagious, even if both patients have been vaccinated against the virus, the protection is very low and therefore all measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the virus in Sri Lanka.
Recent research has shown that people with chronic diseases, even those who have received both vaccines, are 30% to 40% more likely to die if they are infected with the omicron virus.
Therefore, all measures should be taken to reduce the risk of transmission of the omicron virus, she said.
She also urged the public to refrain from gathering and holding ceremonies during the upcoming festive season and to fulfill their civic responsibilities.