Union Assurance launches ‘DenGone’

Wednesday, 5 February 2014 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

An educational video game on dengue

The global incidence of dengue has grown dramatically, with about half of the world’s population at risk. Several areas in Colombo are faced with a risk of reaching epidemic levels, with Dehiwala, Katubedda and Moratuwa areas undergoing an increase in the spread of dengue, while Kohuwala, Kaduwela, Kolonnawa and Angoda areas reporting a tendency to reach epidemic levels in the near future.

Currently, dengue is found in similar urban and semi-urban areas. While early detection and access to proper medical care lowers fatality rates below 1% there is no vaccine, cure, or specific treatment for dengue fever however; prevention remains the only effective strategy through the control of the mosquito population. Keeping this in mind, Union Assurance has envisioned and launched ‘DenGone’ a multimedia, educational video game highlighting the importance of the prevention of dengue targeting schoolchildren as well as adults. DenGone initiative was developed in collaboration with the Public Health Department of the Colombo Municipal Council to educate children about the risk factors of the disease while showcasing innovative yet simple steps that can be taken to eradicate it.

“Dengue cannot be taken lightly and curbing the spread of the mosquito responsible for the disease is in the hands of the public,” said Public Health Department, Colombo Municipality Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ruwan Wijayamuni. “We felt this game was timely, as it addresses the fight against dengue in a very creative and memorable way in the mind of a child, who can act as an advocate in their own homes and surrounding neighbourhood,” he concluded. The game’s main characters are a schoolboy and girl who roam through a dark and mysterious path, dodging dengue mosquitoes and cleaning up potential breeding sites. The game includes a multiplayer function, available in all three languages on UA’s Facebook page. “With this initiative we are seeking to use technology and entertainment to educate the public with regard to the spreading of dengue,” explained Union Assurance AGM Marketing Dharshana Amarasinghe. “UA continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health and the CMC to help create awareness on dengue and will do so into the future as well,” he concluded. Continuous awareness building is required to ensure that the dengue menace will not develop into an epidemic situation. UA has conducted over 5 major programs on the prevention of dengue during 2013 as part of a continuous program in collaboration with the Public Health Department and the Ministry of Health Departments of the respective areas. UA intends to keep strengthening its CSR reach and to be part of positive social change as a ‘trusted’ insurance provider of the nation. For more information on DenGone, please speak to Sameera 0777 308 629 or Amali 0778 176 445 at Union Assurance PLC.