COLOMBO (News 1st); A special expert committee has been appointed to determine whether the Japanese-manufactured Qdenga dengue vaccine is suitable for use in Sri Lanka, the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) announced, as the country continues to face a significant surge in dengue infections.The development comes as the number of dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka this year has exceeded 77,000.Health authorities said that 21,650 dengue cases have been reported during the past 20 days alone, highlighting the rapid spread of the disease across the country. A total of 984 new cases were recorded yesterday (20), while patient numbers have shown a notable increase over the past several months.The number of dengue-related deaths reported so far this year has risen to 56.The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) said that 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the island continue to be classified as high-risk dengue zones.At the provincial level, the Western Province remains the worst-affected region, accounting for 52.67 per cent of all dengue cases reported nationwide.Meanwhile, NMRA Chairman and Consultant Physician Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama said an application has been submitted for the registration of the Qdenga vaccine in Sri Lanka.An eight-member panel of experts has now been appointed to evaluate the scientific, clinical and regulatory information submitted as part of the application process.Dr. Wijewickrama noted that the potential benefits of introducing the Qdenga vaccine include reducing the risk of dengue infection, lowering the likelihood of severe dengue complications and decreasing the need for hospitalisation.However, medical experts have cautioned that the level of protection provided by the vaccine can vary depending on several factors, including an individual's previous dengue infection history, age and whether they live in an area where dengue is prevalent.He further stressed that mosquito density remains high in several parts of the country and emphasized that maintaining clean surroundings at homes, workplaces and public institutions will continue to be crucial in the coming weeks.Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, Dr. Kapila Kannangara, said the vaccine should not be viewed as an immediate solution to the current outbreak."This is not something that can be implemented overnight. It cannot be used as an immediate solution for the situation we are facing right now. It is generally a long-term programme involving advanced technology. It may take around three to four years before we see meaningful results. However, many countries have achieved considerable success through this approach, and I believe Sri Lanka can also achieve positive outcomes. We are currently working very intensively on this initiative," he said.
