Dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka surpass 98,000

Sri Lanka has officially recorded more than 98,000 cases of dengue fever so far this year, according to the latest statistical update published by the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU). Health officials confirmed that the nationwide caseload reached 98,081, underscoring persistent challenges in vector control amid changing seasonal rainfall patterns.

Epidemiological data shows that the Western Province continues to bear the heaviest burden of the outbreak, with the highest concentration of infections registered across the Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara districts. High population density, rapid urban construction activities, and inadequate residential waste management have contributed significantly to the proliferation of Aedes mosquito breeding grounds.

In response to the sharp surge in hospital admissions, the Ministry of Health has intensified entomological surveillance and initiated targeted door-to-door community inspection campaigns in the most affected medical officer of health (MOH) divisions. Specialized task forces comprising local administrative officers, security forces, and public health inspectors have been mobilized to inspect premises and issue warnings or legal notices against property owners failing to maintain clean surroundings.

Medical specialists have warned the public against home treatments and the unauthorized use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs when experiencing sudden high fever, joint pain, nausea, or headache. The NDCU emphasized that individuals presenting persistent fever should seek medical attention within 48 hours for early diagnostic platelet screening to avoid severe complications such as dengue hemorrhagic shock syndrome.