Sri Lanka’s use of antivirals reduces the seasonal influenza burden

Sri Lanka prioritizes rapid testing and treatment of influenza

Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by focusing on rapid testing, timely treatment, and maternal health integration. With WHO support, the country is developing the evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination -advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and improve pandemic preparedness.

Sri Lanka is taking a proactive approach to reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza by focusing on rapid testing and timely treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for high-risk groups, helping to prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, ensuring a steady supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.

A key part of this effort is the integration of influenza care into Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) services, with a strong focus on protecting pregnant women. In 2015 and 2016, influenza was linked to 10% of maternal deaths in Sri Lanka-prompting swift action from the Ministry of Health. Today, pregnant women with fever and respiratory symptoms are urged to seek medical care immediately, with oseltamivir prescribed within 24-48 hours of symptom onset when appropriate. Health education campaigns and antenatal clinic training ensure that women recognize the signs of influenza and seek care without delay. This approach has been effective at substantially reducing maternal mortality from influenza.

Credit: WHO/ Nimal Garnage
Caption: Prenatal care in Sri Lanka. A health worker checking a pregnant woman during a home visit.

In July 2025, WHO teams from Headquarters, the South-East Asia Regional Office, and the Sri Lanka Country Office met with national health leaders, including Director-General of Health Services Dr Asela Gunawardena and Chief Epidemiologist Dr Hasitha Tissera. Together, they explored how Sri Lanka can build on its antiviral strategy by incorporating influenza vaccines into a broader, more holistic prevention and control programme.

Looking ahead to 2025-2026, the Ministry of Health plans to analyze the burden of influenza and the number of hospitalizations, deaths, and absenteeism that could be prevented through vaccination. These studies will complement recent research by the University of Ruhuna and Duke University, which demonstrated the cost-effectiveness of introducing influenza vaccines in Sri Lanka. WHO is also supporting efforts to include influenza vaccination guidance in the national immunization handbook, paving the way for more effective vaccine use.

By combining rapid antiviral treatment, local pharmaceutical production, and advancing the evidence-base for influenza vaccine policy, Sri Lanka is protecting its most vulnerable populations and preparing for future pandemics.