Community Engagement

Community engagement is central to Sri Lanka's strategy to prevent and control leishmaniasis. The community involvement improves early detection, treatment-seeking behaviour, and acceptance of vector control measures.

Key Objectives of Community Engagement

Improve public awareness of symptoms and early healthcare-seeking
Promote personal protection measures to reduce sandfly bites
Mobilize community support for environmental management
Encourage participation in active surveillance and screening campaigns
Reduce stigma associated with skin lesions

Approaches Used

                1. Health Education & Awareness
                IEC materials for the public, schools, workplaces, and high-risk communities
Risk communication during PHFO field visits
Dermatology clinics providing counselling for patients and families

            

                2. Community-Based Vector Control
                Clean-up campaigns to remove organic waste
Community-led environmental modification around houses and farm areas
Engaging farmer organizations, local authorities, and religious leaders

            

                3. Engagement of Schools
                School awareness programmes in endemic areas
Use of student-led activities and competitions
Integration of basic knowledge into health clubs and school health promotion initiatives

            

4. Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships

The AMC collaborates closely with:

Provincial health authorities
Dermatology units
Universities conducting research
Local government institutions
Community-based organizations and NGOs