Sri Lanka’s efficient and high-quality healthcare system has led to the eradication of polio, measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus, while also successfully controlling other vaccine-preventable diseases such as hepatitis B, according to Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
Speaking at the National Immunisation Summit held recently at BMICH, Colombo, the Minister emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to expanding vaccine coverage and enhancing public health services. The event, held after a decade, was jointly organised by the Health and Media Ministry and the Epidemiology Unit, with support from WHO, GAVI, and UNICEF.
Experts at the summit reviewed current immunisation programmes, explored technical adjustments, and discussed the introduction of new vaccines over the next five years. The recommendations will be key in shaping policies under Sri Lanka’s National Immunisation Programme.
Dr. Jayatissa reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s alignment with WHO’s Global Immunisation Agenda 2030, focusing on new technologies, improved vaccine accessibility, and enhanced service delivery. He also acknowledged GAVI’s supportin sustaining vaccination efforts amid economic challenges and outlined plans to strengthen supply chains and public health services.
Sri Lanka’s immunisation efforts date back to 1886, with the first smallpox vaccine, and the country launched the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) in 1978 under WHO guidance, with UNICEF’s support.
The summit was attended by key figures, including Kalutara District MP Nihal Abeysinghe, Health and Media Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena, Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Hasitha Tissera, UNICEF Representative Christian Skoog, WHO Representative Dr. Alaka Singh, GAVI Programme Manager Dr. Masafumi Singh, university heads, pediatric specialists, and medical researchers.
