Sri Lanka, May 25 -- Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni has issued a clarification following media reports that claimed 180 types of medicines are in short supply at hospitals across the country.

The Deputy Minister stated that although it was reported that 180 types of medicines were in short supply, in reality, only about 40 types are unavailable in hospitals, at present.

Commenting further on the matter, he acknowledged the ongoing shortage of some medicines in the country.

The Deputy Minister of Health stated that the shortage of medicine has existed for many years while due to the recent economic crisis, it deteriorated further.

He said the demand still remains, since there are occasional disruptions to the supply cha...