The Ministry of Health announced today that Sri Lanka has commenced its Triple Elimination programme across all maternity clinics, marking a new milestone in maternal and child health.

According to the Ministry, from June 1 onward, blood testing of pregnant mothers will include screening for the Hepatitis B virus, in addition to existing checks for HIV and Syphilis.

The Ministry noted that Sri Lanka successfully implemented the Dual Elimination programme, preventing mother‑to‑child transmission of HIV and Syphilis.

In 2019, the World Health Organization certified Sri Lanka as one of the first countries to achieve this milestone, and the nation has since maintained that status with continuous recognition.

“As the next step, the Triple Elimination programme has now been launched, ensuring that all pregnant mothers are tested for Hepatitis B alongside HIV and Syphilis. This will be carried out at every maternity clinic islandwide,” the Ministry of Health said in its statement. (Newswire)

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A syphilis-like bacterial infection spreading among monkeys and macaques has been detected in Polonnaruwa and Giritale, it was reported.

According to reports, the infection has been found through a joint study by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and animal health authorities. 

Wildlife Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Nihal Pushpakumara said blood and PCR tests have confirmed the syphilis-like bacterial infection.

He further explained that the infection affects the genital organs, skin, and anus of the animals.

Dr. Nihal Pushpakumara advised the public to avoid close contact with monkeys and macaques, especially in places of religious worship frequented by monkeys.

He further warned that the bacteria could spread to humans if they come into contact with contaminated areas. (Newswire)

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