The national immunisation programme extends to all Sri Lankans, in all parts of the country.
I have been associated with the epidemiological unit for many years, as chairperson of the National Committee for the Control and Certification of Polio Eradication (NCCPE).
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| Two students who fell sick after being administered the Rubella vaccination recently receiving treatment at Matara Hospital |
On many occasions, I have publicly applauded the excellent work and dedication of the officers associated with the programme.
Unfortunately, there have been a couple of deaths in connection with the immunisation programme. The NCCPE has expressed its concerns that preventive action should have resulted in the death of children. Even one death is not acceptable to the committee. We are committed to the survival and quality of life of all children.
The success of Sri Lanka’s immunisation programme is the envy of many developed countries – and this success comes in spite of years of conflict in the North and East.
The programme has helped greatly in reducing the mortality rate among our children, and it has also addressed other problems, such as malnutrition and congenital heart disease.
This letter is an appeal to all persons – in the public and private sectors – to take every step possible to prevent any further deaths among all children brought under the immunisation programme.
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