News

Prof. Chandima Jeewandara addresses concerns on HMPV reports in China

Published

2 weeks ago

January 4, 2025

editor

Director of the Allergy, Immunology and Cell Biology Unit of the University of Sri Jayawardenapura – Prof. Chandima Jeewandara has addressed the rising concerns over a new wave of respiratory infections in China.

Taking to X, he points out, “Respiratory infections are common during winter and typically not a cause for alarm.”

“However, China is seeing a rise in respiratory infections, likely caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), overwhelming hospitals. HMPV can be serious for kids, the elderly, and those with weak immunity,” he says.

“HMPV, discovered in 2001, is not a new virus. It usually causes respiratory infections with symptoms resembling a cold or flu. While some social media posts describe a crisis, Chinese authorities and the WHO have not declared a state of emergency as of now…While HMPV is driving a rise in respiratory infections, it is neither a new virus nor a looming pandemic threat. Seasonal spikes are expected, particularly as people reacclimate to common pathogens after Covid-19 lockdowns,” he further explains.

Prof. Jeewandara’s entire thread on X is as follows :

News

Writ petition against Mannar Wind Power Project fixed for May 23

Published

29 minutes ago

January 17, 2025

editor

A writ petition seeking an order to prevent authorities from issuing any permits or approvals for carrying out the wind power plant project on Mannar Island was yesterday fixed for May 23 by the Court of Appeal.

The petition was filed by the President of the Sri Lanka Green Organization, Sanka Chandima Abhayawardena. Counsel appearing on behalf of the Attorney General informed Court that several important applications related to the matter are scheduled to be called before the Supreme Court in March.

The Attorney General’s Department further stated that the Government has not yet made a final decision regarding the project. Taking these facts into consideration, Court of Appeal Judge S. U. B. Karalliyadde scheduled the petition for May 23.

The Petitioner stated that the Cabinet of Ministers of previous regime, has purportedly decided to award the Construction and operation of the Mannar Wind Power Project (Phase-II) in the Mannar Island to Adani Green Energy Sri Lanka Limited (AGESL), as a Build, Own and Operate (BOO) project for a period of 25 years.

(DailyNews)

(This story, originally published by DailyNews has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

SJB appoints committee for talks on working together with UNP

Published

10 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

The Working Committee of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has approved a proposal for discussions to work together with the United National Party (UNP).

Accordingly, a five-member committee, headed by SJB General Secretary – Ranjith Madduma Bandara, has been appointed for the discussions.

News

China pledges to back sovereignty, territorial integrity & independence of SL (Video)

Published

10 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, stated that China is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.

This statement was made during a meeting between President Anura Kumar Disanayake and Zhao Leji, which took place earlier today (Jan. 16) as part of President Disanayake’s four-day official visit to China.

During the meeting, Chairman Zhao warmly welcomed President Disanayake, further emphasizing that working with Sri Lanka in a continuous and cooperative manner is a key expectation of the Chinese National People’s Congress.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism – Vijitha Herath, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation – Bimal Rathnayake, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka – Qi Zhenhong and Sri Lankan Ambassador to China – Majintha Jayesinghe, were also present at the event.

(President’s Media Division)