Dengue risks looming in coming months

As Sri Lanka is not out of the woods of Covid-19, the risk of dengue is set to rise in the coming months with the escalation of the prevailing showery condition, National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) Director Anura Jayasekera said yesterday.

“Although the situation on dengue spreading is not alarming, the risk of dengue is to surge in the coming months with the showery conditions intensifying," Dr. Jayasekera said.

“Therefore, people are advised to clean their surrounding environment and clear them of breeding grounds for dengue mosquitoes,” he added.

According to Epidemiology Unit statistics, a total of 27,733 dengue cases have been reported in the country since January this year with the highest number of cases reported in January as 11,608.

The Western Province is the worst hit among other provinces with 8,014 cases. Accordingly, 3,947, 2,420 and 1,647 cases have been reported from Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara respectively.

During the course of this year, 30 dengue related deaths have been reported so far, Dr. Jayasekara said. (Sheain Fernandopulle)