Despite the rapid rise in dengue prevalence in Sri Lanka, the Association of Public Health Inspectors has decided to withdraw from dengue control activities.
Speaking to the media, the executive member of the association, Roshan Kumara, said that this decision was taken in protest against the failure of the authorities to respond to their grievances.
”Failure to increase mileage and transportation allowances for field duty is the main reason for this trade unione act” he said . He stressed that public health inspectors are facing financial difficulties as these allowances are not enough with the rising cost of living, fuel prices and motorcycle maintenance costs.
So far, 71,800 dengue cases have been reported in Sri Lanka and 44 deaths have been reported. Health authorities say that the number of patients is expected to increase further due to the prevailing rainy conditions.