State Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera, who was tested positive for COVID19, has requested the government to allow COVID19 patients with mild or no symptoms to be quarantined at home.

In a Youtube interview, Jayasekera said such a move would lessen the burden on the government-run quarantine centres and enable the authorities to accelerate the repatriation of Sri Lankan workers overseas. "However this must be done under the supervision of health officials. I think those who are quarantined at home must meet certain guidelines such as adequate space and a seperate toilet."

Jayasekera underwent treatment at a facility in Hikkaduwa and has now returned home after two consecutive negative tests. Jayasekera was the first Sri Lankan MP to test positive for the virus.

Jayasekera also stated he did not experiment with any "local cure" during the time he underwent treatment. "Some tried to offer me various local cures but I asked all of them to hang those bottles on the gate of my house and leave," he added.

The State Minister. during the same interview, admitted that the spread of COVID19 had reached unmanageable proportions and it was up to the public to remain vigilant.

"It is important to adopt safety guidelines and protect yourself," he warned. However, Sri Lankan authorities are yet to officially admit "community spread" of the virus although cases are being reported from almost every part of the country on a daily basis.