Risk of dengue persists: National Dengue Unit Head

 By Pranavesh Sivakumar

With the country tightly gripped by floods following Cyclone Ditwah, there is a significant risk of dengue resurfacing, Dr. Prescila Samaraweera, spokesperson for Sri Lanka’s National Dengue Control Unit, said.

She noted that any risk would surface only after the floodwater recedes, which may take a few days.

According to her, the main concern is for those in temporary camps, as it could take up to a fortnight for dengue-related illnesses to re-emerge.

She added that some health workers have also been affected, while certain roads remain inaccessible.

“Mainly, we will be asking them to carry out fogging at the camps and ensure proper waste disposal. If there are any fever patients, they must be taken to a hospital immediately. They cannot be kept in the camps,” she stressed.

“At this moment, we cannot focus on disseminating dengue-related messages or repellent use. In the immediate aftermath, rescue work is the priority. We will gradually return to dengue control once essential needs are met,” she explained.

Dr. Samaraweera also noted that dengue cases in November were higher than those reported in October.

 “Even without the flooding, there can be a rise if a new virus emerges, as there are four types of dengue these days. At the moment only the third type is circulating”, she added.