The decision was taken at a meeting of the Colombo District Dengue Control Committee chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya at the Colombo District Secretariat today (12).
The Committee noted that dengue cases have increased significantly this year compared to the previous year. According to the National Dengue Control Unit, approximately 39,100 dengue cases have been reported islandwide so far this year, with 25.8% of those cases recorded in the Colombo District. As a result, Colombo has been identified as a high-risk district for dengue.
Health authorities stated that the increased spread of the disease has been influenced not only by the characteristics of the circulating virus but also by the limited time available for the public to develop immunity. They further pointed out that the heavy rainfall experienced in recent months has contributed to a renewed surge in dengue cases.
It was also revealed that this year’s dengue outbreak is being reported more frequently in public places such as government institutions, private sector workplaces, schools and religious institutions, rather than in residential premises. Inspections have identified improperly managed solid waste and poorly maintained drainage systems in offices and public locations as major mosquito breeding grounds.
Accordingly, a series of activities will be carried out during the Dengue Prevention Week from June 15 to 21. These include organizing community clean-up campaigns at government and private institutions, schools and residential areas; inspecting high-risk premises through Divisional Secretariats and initiating legal action following awareness programmes where necessary; distributing educational leaflets; displaying awareness banners; and conducting public awareness campaigns through the media.
Health authorities also requested school administrations not to involve students below Grade 10 in school cleaning programmes. Schools were further advised to immediately notify the relevant Medical Officer of Health (MOH) office if any student is diagnosed with dengue.
The programme is expected to receive the active participation of district political authorities, religious leaders, public officials, local government institutions, the Tri-Forces, the Police, and the general public.
The meeting was attended by the Chairman of the District Coordinating Committee, Members of Parliament, representatives of local government institutions, government officials, police officers, and representatives from the education and health sectors.
