Nugegoda public market closed down amidst COVID-19 fears

COLOMBO (News1st): The Nugegoda Public Market was closed until further notice after two traders tested positive for COVID-19 as part of the Peliyagoda cluster. "We disinfected the premises (of the market) to destroy the germs," Dr Manoj Rodrigo, the chief medical officer of health in the Kotte Municipal Council said. PCR tests, to identify COVID-19 patients, were carried out at the Gampaha Municipal Council grounds on individuals who had visited the Peliyagoda Fish Market at which a cluster had emerged. According to the municipal council, 200 individuals had been subjected to PCR tests. The Public Health Inspectors attached to the Gampaha Municipal Council said that 150 PCR tests had been carried out yesterday. Meanwhile, a special discussion was held at the Gampaha District Secretariat on the current situation in the area and to determine the future course of action. The meeting was chaired by district secretary Sunil Jayalath. The Trincomalee Fish Market was also closed down after six individuals in the Trincomalee district, including market vendors tested positive for the virus. Travel restrictions were imposed in the Channel Lane, Sumedagama, Abhayapura, 5th Mile Post, Galmatiyawa, and Pulmoddai areas today. Our correspondent reported that entry to the Cod-Bay Fishery Harbour was also restricted.