PM Harini calls for long-term programme to tackle dengue

A long-term programme should be formulated to minimize the spread of the dengue epidemic, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said today (16) while addressing a special dengue prevention programme organized in Kottawa in conjunction with Dengue Prevention Week. 

PM Amarasuriya further said that, just as the country has successfully overcome previous challenges, the dengue challenge must also be addressed and overcome through a collective effort.

The Prime Minister revealed that at present, the risk of dengue is increasing across the country, with the Colombo District remaining at high risk, and health authorities identifying Maharagama as one of the particularly vulnerable areas.

“The risk has been identified especially in schools, government and private sector offices, and other public spaces. As a government, we have declared a Dengue Prevention Week and are undertaking special interventions during this period with the objective of addressing the risk of dengue faced by the public.

“However, this effort should not be limited to a single week. A long term programme should be  formulated to address this issue. At this critical juncture, all stakeholders must come together and act with determination,” she said. 

PM Amarasuriya noted that over the past one and a half years, the government has successfully overcome numerous challenges, adding that similarly, the authorities must collectively come forward to overcome this challenge as well. 

“Dengue prevention should be regarded as a personal responsibility by every citizen. We must work towards transforming the Colombo District from a high-risk area into a lower-risk zone and progressively move towards eliminating the threat altogether,” she added. 

Following the programme, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya also inspected the local bus stand and surrounding areas. (Newswire)

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