The week-long campaign, which will continue until June 20, aims to reduce mosquito breeding sites through extensive cleaning and inspection programs at workplaces, government institutions, schools, homes, and public spaces. Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) will also conduct monitoring and awareness activities throughout the period.
Health experts have warned that the number of dengue cases reported each week has risen significantly above normal levels. They caution that failure to control the outbreak could lead to a serious public health situation, particularly with the ongoing rainy weather creating favorable conditions for mosquito breeding and disease transmission.
The campaign is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, the National Dengue Control Unit, the Ministry of Education and Vocational Education, and the Sri Lanka Police.
A special coordination meeting involving Chief Secretaries and officials from all nine provinces was held via Zoom under the leadership of Deputy Minister Ruwan Senarath. Medical specialists and health officials from the National Dengue Control Unit also participated in the discussion.
Community Health Specialist Dr. Jagath Amarasekara of the National Dengue Control Unit stated that while the country typically records around 1,000 dengue cases per week, recent figures have shown a rapid increase, prompting urgent preventive measures.
National Dengue Prevention Week Schedule
June 15–17 (Monday to Wednesday): Cleaning of urban areas, blocked drainage systems, shopping complexes, religious sites, bus stations, and other public places.
June 18 (Thursday): Cleaning of schools, preschools, tuition centers, and other educational institutions.
June 19 (Friday): Cleaning of all government and private institutions, as well as factory premises.
June 20 (Saturday): Cleaning of private residences and surrounding environments.
Authorities have urged the public to actively participate in the campaign by eliminating stagnant water sources and maintaining clean surroundings to help prevent the spread of dengue across the island.
