A new COVID-19 virus strain detected in Sri Lanka is spreading fast, according to an expert.

The new variant has been infecting five to six people from one covid positive person and displays a behavior completely different from the older strains, said Professor Neelika Malavige of the Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine, at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

Addressing the media, Malavige said the new variant is infecting more number of young people, website ColomboPage said.

He said since the virus is transmitted through air, more than ever the public should wear masks and avoid crowded places.