Journey of a Medical Consultant who walked an arduous path to serve the common man - Part 3

She presented a statistical analysis demonstrating that poor decision-making during certain periods in Sri Lanka which contributed to the resurgence of malaria epidemics in the country.

- By DHARSHAN SILVA

The emergence of malaria was affected by specific interactions among vectors, parasites, and various environmental and human factors. She highlighted that individuals of all ages are susceptible to the full range of clinical complications. Her comments emphasized that a malaria epidemic could lead to significant economic consequences, although the overall economic impact of such an epidemic remains uncertain.

In July 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a new summary of insights gained from various countries, specifically highlighting India, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Sri Lanka. The report noted that Sri Lanka is currently one of the few countries recognized by WHO as malaria-free which has been certified by WHO in 2016. However, Dr. Anula Wijesundere emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance due to the potential risks associated with international travel. In other words, during her speech she gave an important take home message to all doctors, to test blood for the malarial parasite in all foreign travellers who present with fever and all Sri Lankans who develop fever have travelled to malaria endemic areas during the past one year.

At present, Dr. Anula Wijesundere is a member of the technical support group of the Anti-Malaria Campaign.