NDCU AND WHO gear up towards a dengue-free Sri Lanka

In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) conducted a workshop today (September 20) titled, “Sustainable Prevention and Control of Dengue in Sri Lanka” chaired by the State Minister of Health Dr. Seetha Arambepola at the Water’s Edge Hotel, Colombo.

The programme pointed to the need of developing an independent task-oriented framework to sustainably prevent and control dengue in Sri Lanka.

The event attached greater importance to, "sustainable prevention and control of dengue require a multifaceted approach that combines traditional vector control methods with innovative strategies, community engagement, and climate-resilient approaches.”

The conference also fastened on achieving the said objectives through task-oriented and multi-sectoral approach where every relevant sector identifies their part and responsibilities and is liable to put them into force while the health sector provides technical aspects to optimize the activities.

The NDCU is further of the view that, by integrating said components, alongside fostering multilateral cooperation, Sri Lanka can reduce the burden of dengue and work towards a future where this disease no longer poses a significant threat to public health and well-being.  

The occasion was graced with the presence of Director General of the NDCU Dr. Nalin Ariyarathne, Consultant Community Physicians of the NDCU Dr. Nimalka Pannila Hetti, Dr. Anoja Dheerasinghe, Dr. Charith Hettiarachchi, Senior Professor of Faculty of Engineering of University of Moratuwa Prof. M.T.R. Jayasinghe, Head of Department of Architecture of University of Moratuwa Dr. Janaka Wijesundara, Professor Emeritus of Sociology of University of Colombo Prof. Siri Hettige, and other related dignitaries.

Pics by: M.A. Pushpa Kumara