As a notable surge in dengue cases coincides with the onset of the rainy season, the government has swiftly mobilized efforts to mitigate the situation.
Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff, has urgently called for measures to address the escalating crisis. This call to action transpired during a pivotal meeting at the Presidential Secretariat on the 5th of this month, chaired by State Minister of Health Dr. Sita Arambepola and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka.
The primary focus of the discussions centered on the increasing number of dengue cases in the Colombo, Gampaha, Kandy, and Jaffna districts. Disturbingly, reports indicated the breeding of dengue vectors in public spaces, including government institutions, boat yards, and schools.
In response, Sagala Ratnayaka issued a set of directives to the National Dengue Control Unit to address these concerns. Notably, he instructed the Sri Lanka Police, with the support of the armed forces, to take immediate action to control the situation. The Presidential Secretariat is preparing to dispatch letters to various government agencies, outlining urgent measures to curb the spread of the disease.
Moreover, to bolster public awareness, Mr. Ratnayaka proposed a collaborative effort between the Sri Lanka Police and the offices of the Medical Officers of Health to implement a comprehensive nationwide awareness program.
A follow-up meeting with the dengue control unit is slated for next Monday to assess the progress of these initiatives. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public amidst this dengue outbreak.
