June 01, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities are urging the public to seek prompt medical advice for persistent fever symptoms as Sri Lanka experiences a noticeable increase in mosquito-borne diseases following recent periods of heavy rainfall.
Consultant physician Dr Maheshaka Wijayawardena warned that individuals who continue to experience fever beyond two days should not delay seeking professional medical care, stressing the importance of early blood testing to identify potentially serious infections such as dengue and chikungunya.
According to medical experts, the combination of intermittent rains and stagnant water accumulation has created favourable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, contributing to a surge in cases across several parts of the country. The Western Province continues to record the highest number of infections, with densely populated districts such as Colombo and Gampaha remaining among the most affected areas.
Dr Wijayawardena noted that dengue infections have already reached significant levels this year, while chikungunya, which had remained relatively subdued in recent years, is once again showing signs of increased transmission.
One of the major challenges facing healthcare providers is the similarity of symptoms associated with both illnesses. Patients commonly present with fever, severe body aches, headaches, joint pain and skin rashes, making it difficult to distinguish between the two conditions during the early stages without proper medical evaluation.
While both diseases can cause considerable discomfort, dengue remains the greater threat due to its potential to develop into severe forms of the illness. Doctors warn that complications can arise rapidly if warning signs are overlooked.
Particular concern surrounds the onset of Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever, a dangerous condition that may result in internal bleeding, circulatory failure and other life-threatening complications. Health professionals caution that patients often mistakenly assume they are recovering when their fever begins to subside, despite this being a critical period during which serious complications may emerge.
Symptoms such as unusual fatigue, persistent abdominal pain, dizziness, vomiting, or cold extremities should be treated as medical emergencies and require immediate attention.
The physician also advised the public to avoid self-medicating with certain anti-inflammatory painkillers during unexplained fevers, as these medicines may increase the risk of bleeding if the patient is suffering from dengue.
Beyond treatment, health officials continue to emphasise prevention as the most effective defence. Residents have been encouraged to inspect their homes and surroundings regularly, remove standing water, maintain clean drainage systems and use mosquito repellents and protective clothing where possible.
With further rainfall expected in the coming weeks, health experts warn that transmission risks could increase unless communities actively participate in mosquito-control efforts. Authorities stress that public cooperation remains essential in limiting the spread of both dengue and chikungunya and reducing pressure on the healthcare system.