With severe flooding affecting multiple regions of the country, the Public Health Inspector’s Union of Sri Lanka has warned of a heightened risk of infectious disease outbreaks in the coming days.
Union Secretary Chamil Muthukuda stated that health authorities anticipate a possible increase in communicable diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and leptospirosis due to the prevailing conditions. He noted that stagnant water, disrupted sanitation systems and overcrowding in temporary shelters create favourable environments for the spread of vector-borne and water-borne illnesses.
Health officials also expect a rise in complications among non-communicable disease patients. According to Muthukuda, treatment for individuals with conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer has been disrupted, and many have lost access to their regular medication because of the disaster. He emphasized that special attention is being directed toward ensuring care for these vulnerable groups.
