- Plans structured national drive down to GN level
Health Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa has announced plans to implement a targeted national programme aimed at eradicating dengue within the next two years.
Addressing a special discussion at the Colombo National Hospital on Wednesday (5) to assess the dengue situation in high-risk Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas, the Minister said a structured programme would be introduced down to the Grama Niladhari Division (GND) level under the supervision of the Health Ministry.
The discussion focused on weaknesses in previous dengue control programmes, identifying high-risk areas, strengthening mosquito control operations, improving technical support and reducing dengue-related deaths.
Dr Jayatissa said the recent reduction in dengue fatalities was a significant achievement but warned that mosquito control measures should continue even when reported cases decline.
National Dengue Control Unit Director Dr Kapila Kannangara said daily reported dengue cases had dropped from around 1,300 to between 350 and 400 following control measures implemented so far. However, he stressed that continued vigilance was essential ahead of the rainy season and amid changing climate patterns.
Sri Lanka has recorded 88,088 dengue cases so far this year, with 63 deaths reported, according to the latest figures from the Dengue Control Unit. The dengue case fatality rate currently stands at 0.07 per cent.
A total of 2,739 cases have been reported in August so far, while July recorded the highest monthly figure this year, with 29,975 infections.
The Gampaha District remains the worst affected, with 18,739 cases reported, followed by Colombo District with 17,490 cases.
Health authorities have urged the public to support dengue prevention efforts by eliminating mosquito breeding sites and maintaining clean surroundings, particularly with increased mosquito activity expected during the rainy season.
The Dengue Control Unit continues to monitor the situation and has called for greater public cooperation to prevent a further surge in infections.