The Health Ministry announced today (25) as a special dengue eradication day for the immediate control and prevention of dengue in the country.

While issuing a media release, Health Services Director General Dr.Asela Gunawardana said it was observed that currently there is a huge risk of the spread dengue virus in the country.

Over 43,000 dengue positive cases have been reported so far this year, and nearly 8,000 dengue cases were reported during the month of July, Dr. Gunawardana said.

According to entomological survey reports, there is a high alert for dengue virus among state and private institutions, schools, construction sites, factories, and other public places. The said areas were identified as high dengue breeding areas where the most dengue bites occurred during the day and evening.

On the special dengue eradication day, the working staff of all state and private sectors should engage in cleaning their premises for one hour. Plans should be implemented to continue the cleaning process. A committee should be appointed under a responsible officer and should receive technical assistance and supervision from the area Public Health Officer (PHI). (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)