SARS CoV-2 variant surveillance based on gene sequencing

Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Research Institute, Colombo and Department of Zoology and Environmental Sciences, University of Colombo have conducted SARS CoV-2 variant analysis based on gene sequencing data generated by Oxford Nanopore gene sequencing method since July 2021.

Reopening of schools for in person learning as a priority

In response to the COIVD-19 pandemic, countries across the world used short- or long-term school closures as a mean of reducing transmission of diseases in the community. The scientific evidence on the effectiveness of school closures in preventing transmission is scarce and show no significant…

Use of Decontamination Chambers and Spraying of Disinfectants in Public Spaces to minimize spread of COVID-19 virus: Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists’ Point of View

Firstly, we would like to bring the attention of the public to “decontamination chambers”. There are many offers to donate these to hospitals and other public places, including the Ministry of Health. Many places have installed these chambers at their entrances/exits, making it mandatory for…

Mucormycosis – Commonly known as “Black fungus”

  By Dr. Primali Jayasekera Consultant Medical Mycologist, Head / Department of Mycology, Medical Research Institute, Colombo 8 A rare but life-threatening fungal infection, known as mucormycosis and colloquially as “black fungus”, is being detected relatively frequently among Covid-19 patients in some states of India….