The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) in Angoda as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Training and Research on Dengue Case Management, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s health sector.

The NIID is the first hospital in Sri Lanka to receive this recognition, which reflects the sustained efforts and dedication of its administrative and clinical teams over many years.

Until now, health workers in Sri Lanka have been studying abroad and with the establishment of this center in Sri Lanka, health workers from other countries will have the opportunity to receive training and conduct research related to dengue disease management in our country.

As part of preparations for this role, the NIID’s Centre for Training and Research (CeRT) has already provided theoretical and clinical training on dengue disease management to countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

The WHO designation has been granted for an initial period of four years, and outlines several goals the hospital should achieve over the next four years.

Accordingly, the NIID will be required to submit annual progress reports to the WHO, and only by properly meeting these targets will the NIID be designated as a WHO Collaborating Center for the next 4 years.

The WHO will also provide continuous support to assist the NIID in achieving these goals.

The NIID further expects to commence training workshops for health officials from the Maldives and Nepal within the next two months as part of its new mandate.

Meanwhile, Director of the NIID, Specialist Dr. A.P. Sandanayake, stated that a modern laboratory facility is currently under construction within the hospital to test for severe infectious diseases, including Ebola, and is expected to be integrated into hospital services this year.

A special media briefing was held at the NIID today (11) to officially announce its designation as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Training and Research on Dengue Case Management.