A national guideline on dengue surveillance, prevention and clinical management for all universities in Sri Lanka was launched today (20), with the aim of strengthening efforts to control the spread of the disease.
The newly introduced standard guidelines focus on the early detection of dengue, proper management of patients, improving disease surveillance and implementing effective measures to prevent dengue mosquito breeding sites. The initiative also seeks to engage the university community in the national dengue prevention campaign.
The programme was jointly developed by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, the Ministry of Health, the University Grants Commission, the World Health Organization and the National Dengue Control Unit, with expert support from the University of Colombo.
Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Madhura Seneviratne said guidelines have already been issued for schools and piriven education institutions on dengue prevention and the actions required in the event of an infection.
He warned that universities in urban locations and areas surrounding student hostels are at greater risk of dengue outbreaks occurring in clusters. The new guideline package developed for all universities is expected to support efforts to minimize such risks.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that dengue control is not a challenge universities’ can overcome alone, adding that support from the wider community and health authorities is essential.
University of Colombo Vice Chancellor Professor Indika Karunathilake said the guideline would provide university students and youth with important knowledge on preventing dengue transmission and the correct steps to follow when affected by the disease.
He added that the guidelines would also help involve university students in national dengue prevention programmes.
Professor Karunathilake further stated that academic activities at the University of Colombo have resumed as usual, while the university health centre has established a system to monitor students showing dengue-related symptoms and direct them for necessary medical care.
