The community-directed health care volunteers model for the leishmaniasis disease control in Medawachchiya PHI Area

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease found in the tropics, subtropics, and southern Europe. In Sri Lanka, the first case was reported in 1992, with noticeable outbreaks after 2015. A major challenge is the lack of early patient identification and effective vector control. This project aims to establish a disease and vector control program in Sri Lanka, beginning in a high-risk district and extending countrywide, utilizing the Community Directed Health Care Volunteers (CDHCV) program for sand fly vector control and early identification. Hybrid training (online and onsite) empowers CDHCVs for disease and fly vector surveillance. The project empowers communities to control the disease and create a risk map for leishmaniasis, aiding healthcare professionals. Target groups benefit from science communication activities, workshops, and awareness programs. Collected feedback enhances program implementation. This initiative could significantly impact leishmaniasis control in Sri Lanka and serve as a model for other vector-borne diseases.

The community-directed health care volunteers model for the leishmaniasis disease control in Medawachchiya PHI Area , Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka is the Project of 2023 Falling Walls Engage Winner Mayumi Madhushani Manamperi Hettige.