June 15, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have launched a week-long Dengue Prevention Campaign beginning today (15) and continuing until June 20, as concerns grow over the increasing number of dengue cases reported across the country in recent weeks.
The initiative aims to reduce mosquito breeding sites and strengthen public awareness through a coordinated nationwide clean-up programme involving government agencies, local authorities, educational institutions, businesses and residents.
As part of the campaign, extensive cleaning operations will be carried out in public spaces from June 15 to 17. These efforts will focus on urban areas, drainage networks, marketplaces, transport hubs, places of worship and other high-risk locations where stagnant water can accumulate and create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
On June 18, attention will shift to the education sector, with schools, pre-schools, tuition centres and their surrounding environments scheduled for inspection and clean-up activities. Officials have urged school communities to actively participate in eliminating potential mosquito breeding grounds before the next academic week.
The following day, June 19, will be dedicated to cleaning government offices, private-sector workplaces, industrial facilities and factory premises. Employers have been encouraged to ensure their properties remain free of discarded containers, blocked drains and other areas where water may collect.
The final phase of the campaign, on June 20, will focus on residential neighbourhoods. Householders are being urged to inspect their homes and gardens, clear standing water and maintain clean surroundings to help curb the spread of dengue.
Health officials emphasised that public participation remains critical to the success of the campaign, warning that sustained community action is essential to preventing a further rise in infections during the current rainy season.