All Sri Lankans must practice DReAM to control COVID-19 transmission and enable the continuation of economic and social activities
The Ministry of Health, WHO Sri Lanka, the Itukama Project, and the Government Medical Officer’s Association (GMOA) launched and are currently running the ‘Towards a New Normal’ campaign to reinforce the importance of practicing public health behaviors to control COVID-19. The campaign focuses on crucial prevention measures, captured in the acronym DReAM.
D – Distancing – maintain a physical distance of at least 1 meter from others; avoid public gatherings, crowded places, close-contact settings, and confined and enclosed spaces;
Re – Respiratory etiquette – cough/sneeze into your elbow; stay at home and contact a doctor (and/or 1999 or 1390) if you have a fever, cough, and/or sore throat
A – Aseptic techniques – wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces;
M – Mask – wear a face mask, ensuring you put on, take off, and store your mask properly; clean your mask regularly and make sure it covers both your nose and mouth at all times.
The campaign consists of two arms: ‘Wagakiyamu’ (Be responsible), which focuses on the obligations of organizations/enterprises, and “Meteren Jeewithe” which focuses on the duties of the general public. The campaign uses symbols that can be used universally as a reminder of DReAM. The overall goal is to create awareness among all Sri Lankans and local organizations, reinforce existing knowledge, and build favorable attitudes and practices that conform to DReAM, especially in public activities and work settings. In additional to following DReAM, everyone should avoid the 3 C’s – Crowded places, Close-contact settings, and Confined and enclosed spaces.
The public health measures encapsulated in DReAM informed the development of 52 instruction notes for a range of public activities/work settings. These instruction notes facilitate the prevention and control of COVID-19; they are available on the Ministry of Health website (www.health.gov.lk).
DReAM to defeat COVID-19….Let’s embrace the New Normal!
