News

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

Published

3 weeks 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

Measures sought against using children in election campaigns

Published

4 hours ago

September 11, 2024

editor

Measures have been sought against children being used in election campaigns.

The ‘Surakimu Daruwan’ National Movement has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission today (Sep. 11) in this regard.

Convener of the movement – Priyantha Herath has said, “Children are being used in canvassing and advertisement… Children cannot be used for political purposes. We have complained to the National Child Protection Authority… Nothing was done. Therefore, we complained of this to the Election Commission.”

The Election Commission itself has informed all parties not to use children in their political campaigns.

Election Commissioner General – Saman Sri Ratnayake has reminded that the candidates have a responsibility to work for the future generations without making the sovereign power and people’s vote, a mere commodity.

He had further added : “Voters too have a responsibility to think about how to use their vote. It is also the responsibility of the NCPA to look into these matters. It is not something that needs to specially reminded by the Election Commission.”

News

Keheliya granted bail

Published

4 hours ago

September 11, 2024

editor

Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and three other suspects, implicated in the alleged importation of substandard human immunoglobulin vials, have been released on bail by the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court.

News

GMOA strike next week

Published

5 hours ago

September 11, 2024

editor

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has decided to commence an island wide strike next Wednesday (Sep. 18).
GMOA spokesman – Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe says this is a mark of protest against the disciplinary investigation against Dr. Palitha Rajapaksa without a formal complaint.

In addition, it has also been decided to display black flags at all hospitals for a week, he says.