News

Childhood asthma on the rise in Sri Lanka, health officials warn

Published

11 months ago

August 20, 2024

editor

The reports of diseases such as childhood asthma have increased these days, according to the Consultant Paediatrician of Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children Dr. Deepal Perera.

He further stated that there is an increase in the influenza cases being reported over the past couple of days.

He noted that if a child exhibits symptoms such as a cough and difficulty in breathing, it could be a sign of asthma. According to him, both influenza and various viral fevers are currently spreading and, particularly the fever is affecting the upper respiratory tract. He added that the situation could likely worsen.

“Therefore, if a child has a cough, cold or fever it is advisable to keep the child at home,” said the Consultant Paediatrician.

He further advised that if children are showing such symptoms they should wear a mask and urged parents to be extra cautious about the potential increase in asthma and respiratory diseases among children.

“Coughing occurring mainly during the night might be a sign of childhood asthma”, warned Dr. Deepal.

He also noted that if a cough is accompanied by chest pain and fever, it is important to keep an eye on the fever, as it could potentially develop into pneumonia while emphasizing the importance to check whether the illness might be affecting the lower respiratory tract and upper respiratory tract due to the prevailing cold climatic conditions.

(adaderana.lk)

(This story, originally published by adaderana.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Japan grants US$ 2.5 mn. to SL to strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms

Published

2 hours ago

July 1, 2025

editor

The Government of Japan has granted USD 2.5 million to Sri Lanka to strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms under a 3-year project for Promoting Prosecution of Corrupt Practices through the Establishment of Anti-corruption Mechanism.

Japanese ambassador in Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata and UNDP resident representative in Sri Lanka – Ms. Azusa Kubota, in the presence of Justice Minister – Harshana Nanayakkara, launched ‘The Project for Promoting Prosecution of Corrupt Practices through the Establishment of Anti-Corruption Mechanism’

The three year initiative is supported by the Government of Japan and implemented by the UNDP Sri Lanka, working in close collaboration with the (CIABOC) and the Ministry of Justice.

The project aims to promote transparency, accountability and integrity in governance and business practices through effective and institutionalised preventive mechanisms in the public and investment promotion sectors, strengthen institutions to enhance corruption related investigative processes, improve coordination with stakeholders and ensure quality of prosecutions, empower citizens to effectively mobilise against corruption and enhance social accountability.

The project also seeks to engage and empower youth, children and journalists to actively contribute to the fight against corruption and promote a culture of integrity.

News

3 ex-DMT officials including ex-commissioner, remanded

Published

2 hours ago

July 1, 2025

editor

Former Commissioner General Nishantha Weerasingha and two other former officials of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) have been arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).

The arrests were made as part of an investigation into vehicles that were illegally registered with the Department of Motor Traffic without receiving proper clearance from Sri Lanka Customs, CIABOC said in a statement.

According to CIABOC, former Commissioner General Nishantha Weerasinghe has been arrested for granting approval to issue a number plate for a jeep.

Additionally, a former Assistant Director of Information Technology at the department and a clerk have also been taken into custody for facilitating the illegal data entry and executing it.

The suspects were produced before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court and were ordered to be remanded until July 08.

News

Ex-Immigration Controller pleads guilty

Published

5 hours ago

July 1, 2025

editor

Controller of Immigration and Emigration – Harsha Illukpitiya, today (July 01) unconditionally pleaded guilty before the Supreme Court in a case related to contempt of court.

The charge stemmed from his failure to comply with a court order related to the e-visa issuance process.

The Supreme Court announced that sentencing will take place on July 24.