SLRCS, IFRC National Dengue Control Unit and the Ministry of Health Launch Simplified Early Action Protocol for Dengue Prevention

The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, together with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) of the Ministry of Health (MoH), has officially launched the Simplified Early Action Protocol (sEAP) for Dengue Prevention. This marks the world’s first dengue-specific sEAP, introducing a transformative shift from reactive disaster response to proactive, anticipatory public health interventions in Sri Lanka.

Dengue continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Sri Lanka, placing sustained pressure on the national health system. The two-year sEAP initiative, implemented from July 2025 to June 2027, will focus on five high-risk districts: Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Jaffna, and Kandy.

SLRCS marked the inauguration with a press conference, engaging the media to help carry the message to communities that dengue can be controlled through simple day-to-day actions and community commitment. The press briefing was attended by Dr. Mahesh Gunasekara, Secretary General of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, and Dr. Kapila Kannangara, Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, along with representatives from partner organizations and the media.

With its extensive field presence, a skilled and well-trained volunteer network, and close coordination with government health authorities, the SLRCS is well-positioned to implement timely and effective dengue preparedness and response measures under the sEAP framework.

Through this initiative, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society aims to empower at-risk communities to reduce life-threatening risks, minimize dengue-related morbidity and mortality, and lessen disruptions to education caused by dengue outbreaks.