Naval Base Was Vector For Largest COVID-19 Cluster In Sri Lanka

The Welisara Naval Base that was the vector for the largest COVID-19 cluster in Sri Lanka reopened today after two months of isolation. 

On April 22, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva closed and isolated the base after a sailor deployed to apprehend those avoiding quarantine and a number of those sharing lodgings with him tested positive for COVID-19. 

In the weeks since the ‘Navy cluster’ continued to grow, with the number of infected sailors, family members and close associates surpassing 900, and nearly 4, 000 quarantined as a precaution. 

On Friday (19), Health Services Director General Dr Anil Jasinghe certified the Welisara Naval Base free of the virus and Navy Spokesperson Lieutenant Commander Isuru Suriyabandara said the base would recommence operations in several phases.