Health Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe has confirmed that there is no need for a general face mask directive in office premises at present.

This clarification follows a circular issued by the Western Provincial Council encouraging mask use due to increased respiratory illnesses, including influenza and COVID-19 variants.

In a letter to the Western Province Chief Secretary, Dr. Jasinghe stressed that any such advisories should be issued solely based on health ministry guidance to avoid public panic and ensure consistency in health messaging.