Sri Lanka lifts face mask mandate

COLOMBO. KAZINFORM - Sri Lankan Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella said on Thursday that wearing face masks in public places is no longer a mandatory with effect from Friday, Xinhua reports.

The minister said, however, it is advisable for those suffering from respiratory diseases to keep wearing a face mask.

Those who want to continue wearing the masks can do so, the minister said.

Sri Lanka attempted to lift face mask mandate in mid-April subject to conditions, but it was reversed due to large public gatherings taking place in the country at the time.