July 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has recorded more than 72,000 dengue infections since the beginning of the year, with health officials warning that the outbreak continues to intensify across several parts of the country.
According to the National Dengue Control Unit, the cumulative number of confirmed cases has reached 72,430. Of these, 1,195 infections were reported on 15 July alone, reflecting the continued spread of the mosquito-borne disease.
The first half of July has seen a particularly sharp increase, with 17,051 cases detected during the first 15 days of the month. Health authorities have urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and take preventive measures as the risk remains high.
The Western Province continues to account for the largest share of infections, reporting 38,160 cases so far this year. It is followed by the Southern Province with 11,274 cases, while the Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces have recorded 6,073 and 6,026 cases respectively.
At district level, Gampaha has reported the highest number of cases in July with 15,082 infections. Colombo follows with 14,447 cases, while Matara has recorded 5,124 cases during the same period.
Meanwhile, the National Dengue Control Unit confirmed that the death toll linked to dengue has risen to 49 this year, underscoring the importance of sustained public health efforts to curb the spread of the disease.