During the National Dengue Control Programme to be implemented on May 8th Wednesday, 9th Thursday and 10th Friday no member of armed forces and police will come to inspect homes. Only the Public Health Officer (PHI) and two health officers will come wearing relevant T-shirts with their Identity cards, the Director of the National Dengue Control Unit Dr. Hasitha Tissera said.
Addressing a press conference held at the Health Promotion Bureau in Colombo yesterday he said that in addition to health officers, the members from the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, voluntary organizations in the relevant areas, etc will contribute to the programme.
According to Dr. Tissera, a minor dengue epidemic condition had been reported from certain parts of the country. All fever patients should see a doctor on the second day of fever. Strong pain killers other than paracetamol cause internal bleeding and acting similar to blood thinners. During the recent past a significant dengue patients with gastritis reported abdominal bleeding.
Health Services Director General Dr. Anil Jasinghe said that every year dengue increases in the 16th and 17th week and the only step that can be taken by the health authorities is minimizing the increase. During last year 58 dengue patients died but this year 23 dengue patients had died within four months which is an alarming situation. Dengue is similar to terrorism and therefore it should be addressed promptly, he added.