All out campaign to contain dengue spread

The Health Ministry and the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) will continue countrywide programmes to prevent the spread of the disease.

The Health Ministry is also working to strengthen the treatment services on the instructions of the Health Minister.

A special discussion related to the strengthening of dengue mosquito control and treatment for dengue patients was held at the Health Ministry under Health Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala.

The Health Secretary instructed officials to take all necessary steps.

A special anti-dengue programme was recently implemented in the public health inspection division of the Ratmalana Medical Officer of Health area where 26 premises were identified. Notices were issued to 112 persons and legal measures were taken in relation to seven premises. The Health Secretary also arranged to inquire about its progress.

Dengue is on the rise in Sri Lanka and more cases are reported in the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kandy, Kalutara, Puttalam, Galle, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Ratnapura and Trincomalee. Health Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala advised officials to follow short-term and long-term methods and implement programmes as soon as possible.

The Health Secretary said that if there is any shortage of physical and human resources related to the activities such as keeping the environment clean, fumigation, and liquid spraying, he will directly intervene and provide the relevant resources.

The Defence Secretary expressed his agreement to provide Police assistance for dengue mosquito control activities. Instructions were given to take the necessary steps to inform Government officials as well as heads of institutions to prepare a system of cleaning Government institutions for a few hours a week.

Officers were also instructed to inspect the medical equipment and staff required for dengue treatment units in Government hospitals and focus on addressing the existing deficiencies.

Deputy Director General (Public Health) Dr.Mahendra Arnold, Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Samaraweera, Chief Medical Officer of Colombo Municipal Council Dr.Ruwan Vijayamuni, Director of Health Promotion Bureau Dr. Ranjith Batuwanthudawa, National Dengue Control Unit Community Specialist Dr. Nimalka Pannilahetti and Colombo Regional Health Services Director Dr. Chandana Gajanayake were present.

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