7,300 dengue cases reported in June
As total for year tops 41,000 and death toll reaches 24
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka has recorded more than 41,000 dengue cases so far this year, with health authorities warning that infections are likely to rise further as monsoon rains create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding across the country.
According to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU), a total of 41,144 dengue cases have been reported nationwide since the beginning of the year, while the number of dengue-related deaths has increased to 24.
Health officials said 7,302 cases were reported during the first 13 days of June alone, indicating a sharp increase in daily infections and raising concerns about a possible surge in cases in the coming weeks.
The NDCU warned that the ongoing south-west monsoon is expected to accelerate the spread of dengue, with increased rainfall leading to the formation of mosquito breeding sites in both urban and rural areas.
In response to the growing outbreak, health authorities have identified 89 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas as high-risk dengue zones, while a further 1,185 MOH divisions have been classified as areas with moderate dengue risk.
More than half of all dengue cases reported this year have originated from the Western Province, highlighting the continued vulnerability of densely populated urban centres to mosquito-borne diseases.
The highest number of cases has been recorded in Colombo District, which has reported 8,686 infections, followed by Gampaha with 7,263 cases. Other districts reporting significant numbers include Matara (2,986), Ratnapura (2,874), Kalutara (2,718), Galle (2,519), and Kandy (2,202).
Health officials noted that the current dengue fatality rate stands at approximately 0.06% but cautioned that the number of severe cases and deaths could increase if preventive measures are not strengthened.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant and take immediate steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in and around homes, workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Residents have been advised to regularly inspect their surroundings for stagnant water, maintain clean premises, and cooperate with dengue control programmes conducted by local health authorities.
The NDCU also called on local government bodies, community organizations, and educational institutions to intensify clean-up campaigns and public awareness initiatives as part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
–ENCL
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