January 23, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has witnessed a sharp increase in dengue cases, with a staggering 3,499 cases reported across the country in the first three weeks of this year.
According to the National Dengue Control Unit, the majority of these cases—1,576—have been concentrated in the Western Province, which includes the capital city of Colombo.
Among the districts, Gampaha has been particularly hard-hit, registering the highest number of dengue infections.
The surge in cases has raised serious concerns among health authorities, who are closely monitoring the situation as the country enters its peak dengue season.
The National Dengue Control Unit has further highlighted that 22 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions throughout the island have been identified as high-risk areas for the spread of the virus.
These regions are now the focus of intensified surveillance and prevention measures.
Health officials are urging the public to take immediate action in eliminating mosquito breeding sites, which are the primary cause of the rapid spread of dengue.
Authorities are also ramping up efforts to raise awareness about preventive measures, such as using insect repellent and ensuring that homes and surroundings are free of stagnant water, where mosquitoes breed.
