Minister of Health Dr. Rajitha Senaratna says the modern pharmaceutical quality research laboratory will be set up by 2018, in Sri Lanka. That will help to properly identify quality and standard of any medicine used in Sri Lanka. Participating in a programme over the SLBC this morning the Minister said Measles and Rubella can be eliminated from the island by 2018. The Hydrophobia has only claimed 26 lives this year. However, about 48,000 cases of dengue fever reported this year. Therefore, stern actions will be taken against the persons who are responsible to creating mosquito breeding places.

The 5000 rupee fine in this regard is to be increased up to 25,000 rupees. The health officials will give the authorities to enter into any private premises without prior approval. The Minister pointed out that further measures will be taken to discourage smoking and use of tobacco products.