Dengue cases near 30,000 as death toll rises to 15 this year

By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, May 19 (Daily Mirror) - A total of 29,589 dengue cases and 15 deaths have been reported in Sri Lanka as of May 18 this year, the National Dengue Control Unit said.

Addressing the media, Community Specialist Dr. Prashila Samaraweera said that 39 high-risk Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions have been identified across the island, with the highest number of cases reported from the Western Province. She added that dengue infections are also rising in the Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces.

According to health authorities, dengue cases have now been reported from all 26 districts, with Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Ratnapura, Matara, Galle and Kandy among the worst-affected areas.

Dr. Samaraweera urged the public to seek medical attention if a fever persists for more than two days. She specifically advised that young children, pregnant women and individuals with chronic illnesses should consult a doctor immediately after developing fever symptoms.

She also warned against self-medication, stating that patients with high fever should not take any medicine other than paracetamol without medical advice.

The specialist further cautioned that legal action would be taken against individuals who allow mosquito breeding sites to remain in their surroundings, urging the public to maintain clean environments to prevent further spread of the disease.