Sri Lanka is considering introducing a dengue vaccine and adopting the Wolbachia mosquito control method as part of efforts to curb the spread of dengue, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.
Speaking at the launch of a dengue control initiative in the Western Province on Monday (06), the Minister said discussions are underway to introduce a World Health Organization-approved dengue vaccine, which is already being used in around 41 countries.
He also said the government is exploring the use of the Wolbachia method, a scientific mosquito control strategy that uses naturally occurring bacteria to reduce the ability of mosquitoes to transmit dengue.
The Minister noted that 52.5% of all dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka are from the Western Province, with Colombo and Gampaha districts accounting for about 20% each.
A special dengue control programme covering 23 high-risk Medical Officer of Health divisions in the Western Province has been underway since Sunday.
Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit Dr. Kapila Kannangara said Sri Lanka has recorded 61,060 dengue cases and 39 dengue-related deaths so far in 2026, including five children under the age of five. He added that women account for a higher proportion of the fatalities.
The Health Ministry said eliminating mosquito breeding sites remains the most effective long-term solution, while strengthening hospital preparedness and introducing new control measures to reduce severe cases and deaths. (Newswire)