Health Minister turns to extensive Cuban expertise to combat dengue menace

Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has sought Cuban expertise to tackcle Sri Lanka’s recurring dengue epidemic. The initiative aims to strengthen treatment services, suppress mosquito breeding, and promote the systematic use of medications to combat the disease effectively.

This collaboration was discussed during a high-level meeting held recently at the Ministry of Health. Dr. Jayatissa met with the Cuban Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Andres Marcelo Gonzalez Garrido, to explore avenues for cooperation. The discussions emphasised leveraging Cuba’s extensive experience in dengue prevention and control.

Key officials participating in the meeting included Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Health Vatsala Priyadarshani, Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena, Chief Epidemiologist of the Epidemiology Unit Dr. Hasitha Tissera, and Director of the Dengue Control Unit Dr. Sudath Samaraweera. The Cuban delegation was represented by First Secretary Maribel Duarte Gonzalez, alongside other dignitaries.

The Minister expressed his commitment to utilising Cuba’s proven methodologies and tools to enhance Sri Lanka’s response to the dengue challenge. Both sides highlighted the importance of sharing technical expertise and experience in developing long-term solutions for mosquito-borne diseases.