An internationally approved dengue control vaccine can significantly reduce the spread of dengue in the country, says Dr. Lakkumar Fernando, founder and clinical head of the Negombo Dengue and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Clinical Management Center, specialist pediatrician.
He also noted that this vaccine shows more than 90 percent success against the second type of dengue virus (DENV-2). He said that he is also involved in the research work to develop this vaccine and is looking forward to it.
Dr. Lakkumar Fernando said this after Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the government’s focus is on introducing this internationally approved dengue vaccine, which is currently used in about 41 countries, to Sri Lanka.
In addition, the government is considering introducing the scientifically proven Wolbachia mosquito control method to the country.
“Vaccine alone cannot completely eliminate dengue. Vaccination is not the only solution. But it is an effective way to greatly reduce the impact and disruption caused by dengue,” said Dr. Fernando.