GMOA appeals to President to close liquor bars and restaurants

By Pradeep Prasanna Samarakoon

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA)  yesterday called on the government to close liquor bars and restaurants and clubs in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We call on the President to close the liquor bars. People flock at these place owing to false claim that consumption of alcohol will increase their immunity and help fight the virus. That is a lie. It is sad to observe how people gather around liquor shops in the face of a threat from the pandemic,” Editor of the GMOA Dr Haritha Aluthge told The Island.

He said that a higher concentration of alcohol in the body would actually decrease the body’s immunity to fight against diseases.

“We are in a critical situation. The Peliyagoda cluster is spreading fast in almost all districts. In this situation people too should pay attention to take maximum precautions. We urge the public to avoid instant and junk foods, consume only traditional meals and drink more water.”