November 09, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has recorded more than 107,000 dengue infections since the beginning of the year, with health officials warning of the continued threat posed by the mosquito-borne disease amid unsettled weather conditions.
The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has confirmed that the country’s cumulative caseload has reached 107,829, while the outbreak has claimed 81 lives so far this year.
Gampaha remains the worst-affected district, accounting for 22,502 infections. Colombo follows closely with 20,799 cases, while Kandy has reported another 8,803 patients.
Monthly figures also highlight the scale of the challenge, with July emerging as the most severe period so far. A total of 29,964 infections were documented during that month, representing a significant increase in the disease burden.
The situation remains a concern as well into November, with health authorities recording 1,577 new cases during the opening days of the month.
With rainfall creating favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, the NDCU has intensified its efforts to prevent a further escalation of infections.
A special nationwide Dengue Prevention Week is being conducted from 9 to 14 November, focusing on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, strengthening inspections and encouraging the public to take greater responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean.
Health officials are urging households and institutions to pay particular attention to stagnant water, discarded containers and other potential breeding sites, stressing that regular environmental checks and public cooperation are essential to containing the spread of dengue.