October 19, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have called on the public to intensify dengue prevention efforts as persistent rainfall creates favourable conditions for mosquito breeding across Sri Lanka.
Dr Kapila Kannangara, Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, has warned that a lapse in preventive measures could pave the way for a fresh wave of infections in the coming weeks. He noted that dengue transmission has frequently increased during periods of heavy rainfall, when stagnant water provides ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
According to Dr Kannangara, larval inspection programmes are under way in districts throughout the country to identify and address potential breeding sites. He stressed, however, that official monitoring alone would not be sufficient without the active involvement of households, businesses and local communities.
Public participation during the Southwest Monsoon had helped health officials contain conditions that threatened to develop into a more serious dengue outbreak, he said. Maintaining that progress will require continued vigilance, particularly as changing weather patterns increase the likelihood of water collecting in residential and public spaces.
Residents have therefore been advised to check their homes, gardens and surrounding properties regularly for containers, discarded items and other locations where rainwater may accumulate. Roof gutters, drains, flower pots and uncovered water receptacles should receive particular attention, as even small amounts of standing water can become mosquito breeding sites.
The health authorities have emphasised that dengue prevention must be treated as an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-off exercise. Consistent cleaning, proper waste disposal and the removal of stagnant water can help reduce mosquito populations and lower the risk of infections spreading within communities.
