There has been a growing trend of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, among adolescents in Sri Lanka, the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

The Health Minister noted that compared to previous years, the risk of STIs has increased among both school and university students.

He said the government has taken serious note of the situation and is working with relevant authorities to address the issue.

"There has been an increase in HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adolescents compared to previous years. Following discussions within the Ministry of Health, a number of school and university students were identified with these infections,” he said. 

The Minister added that the Prime Minister and the Minister of Women and Child Affairs have also been involved in the discussions, with coordinated efforts now underway to curb the emerging trend.

Minister Jayatissa further said that some of the affected individuals had stated they had become victims unknowingly.

Meanwhile, Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Chaminda Weerasiriwardane warned that excessive addiction to social media and digital screens could increase the likelihood of children turning to illicit drug use later in life.

He explained that prolonged digital screen addiction may cause chemical changes in the brain, making children more vulnerable to substance abuse in the future.