Sri Lanka Dengue Cases Surpass 78,000 as High-Risk Areas Continue to Rise 

The number of dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka so far this year has increased to 78,125, according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).

The NDCU confirmed that 1,097 new dengue cases were reported yesterday (21), while 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the country continue to be identified as high-risk areas for dengue transmission.

Dengue infections have shown a significant increase in recent months, with 8,590 cases reported in May, followed by 21,535 cases in June. A further 22,749 cases were recorded during the first 21 days of July alone.

Health authorities reported that 56 dengue-related deaths have been recorded this year, with the case fatality rate standing at 0.07%.

The Western Province has recorded the highest number of dengue cases, accounting for 41,236 infections or 52.78% of the national total. The Southern Province follows with 11,950 cases, while the Central Province has reported 6,603 cases.

At the district level, Gampaha recorded the highest number of infections with 16,478 cases, followed by Colombo with 15,540 cases. Matara, Kandy, and Kalutara districts reported 5,454, 5,228, and 5,135 cases respectively.

Health authorities have urged the public to maintain clean surroundings, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of fever appear.