Arugam Bay, a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, faced a terror threat targeting Israeli tourists, prompting evacuations and heightened security measures. The threat, linked to Middle Eastern conflicts, led to arrests and increased police presence. Local reactions were mixed, with some expressing concerns over Israeli tourists' business practices and cultural differences. The situation highlights the broader impact of regional conflicts on global tourism and local economies.

In Sri Lanka, health outreach workers from the Mithuru Mithuro Movement are dedicated to providing essential services to sex workers, including education on sexually transmitted infections and access to testing. Despite challenges such as stigma and legal issues, their efforts are crucial in supporting vulnerable populations and contributing to the country's public health goals. The National STD/AIDS Control Programme, supported by the Global Fund and other organizations, plays a significant role in these initiatives. The outreach workers' commitment has fostered trust within the community, enhancing the effectiveness of their services.

Samanthi Priyangika Dias, a Supervising Public Health Midwife in Sri Lanka, is dedicated to serving underprivileged communities, addressing teen pregnancies, and malnutrition. Despite the challenges, including personal expenses and lack of government support, Dias's efforts have led to a decrease in teen pregnancies in Egodauyana. The Sri Lanka Health Ministry is planning to set up midwifery schools to strengthen the workforce, reflecting a positive policy shift amidst the economic crisis.

Akila Thirunayagi Sriseyananthapavan, a 72-year-old barefoot runner from Mulliyawalai, Mullativu, achieved remarkable success at the 22nd Asia Masters Athletic Championship in the Philippines, winning a gold medal in the 1500 meters, a silver in the 5000 meters, and a bronze in the 800 meters. Her accomplishments highlight that age is no barrier to breaking records and achieving athletic excellence.

In Sri Lanka, a team led by Dr. RPVJ Rajapakse from the University of Peradeniya is developing a home-grown antivenom to address the inefficacy of Indian antivenom for local snakebites. The initiative, which began in 2017, involves collaboration with India's Premium Serums and Vaccines Pvt. Ltd due to Sri Lanka's lack of infrastructure. The team collects venom from various venomous snakes across the island, processes it into a powdered form, and sends it to India for antibody production. The project faces challenges, including government approval delays, but aims to conduct clinical trials soon. The effort is crucial given the high incidence of snakebites in Sri Lanka, which sees thousands of cases and numerous fatalities annually.

Sri Lanka's battle against leprosy, once nearing success, has been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to concerns about undiagnosed cases. Despite modern treatments being effective, the pandemic and subsequent fuel shortages have hindered case detection. The Anti-Leprosy Campaign, supported by the Ministry of Health and WHO, is implementing new strategies, including a GIS to identify high-risk areas and social marketing campaigns to raise awareness. Efforts are also being made to educate the public through school workshops and personal testimonies from survivors like Susanthi Palihawadana.

Sri Lanka has significantly improved its tuberculosis treatment through the implementation of the electronic Patient Information Management System for Tuberculosis (ePIMS). This system, introduced in 2019, has streamlined patient data management, making it easier for healthcare workers to track and treat patients efficiently. Despite challenges such as transitioning from paper-based records and infrastructure limitations, the system has been beneficial, especially during COVID-19 travel restrictions. The National Programme for Tuberculosis Control & Chest Diseases (NPTCCD) continues to train healthcare workers to maximize the system's potential.

Public health midwives (PHMs) in Sri Lanka play a crucial role in maternal and child health, providing essential care and ensuring timely vaccinations. K. V. P. Susangika, a dedicated PHM, is highly trusted by the community, exemplifying the positive impact of PHMs. Statistics from the Family Health Bureau and a UNICEF report highlight the effectiveness of PHMs in achieving high vaccination rates and maintaining health standards. The article underscores the importance of PHMs in creating a healthy community and the trust they build with families.

Sri Lanka has achieved a significant milestone in public health by controlling hepatitis B, as announced by the World Health Organization. The country has maintained high vaccination coverage among infants and a low prevalence of the disease. The success is attributed to a robust public health infrastructure, free immunization services, and strong public trust in the healthcare system. Despite challenges like vaccine refusals from mothers opting for home deliveries, health officials continue to ensure high vaccination rates through community outreach and education.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka's former president who fled the country amid protests over the economic crisis, has returned after seven weeks. He arrived in Colombo from Bangkok via Singapore and was welcomed by his party members. Rajapaksa, who resigned while in Singapore, will live in an official residence with increased security. Sri Lanka faces its worst economic crisis, with shortages of essentials and a significant foreign debt. The new president, Ranil Wickremesinghe, has reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for a bailout package. The Rajapaksa family's political dominance has been challenged, and there is fear among citizens regarding further protests due to the government's crackdown.