Keep sick children at home amid surge in viral infections: Pediatrician

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, June 13 (Daily Mirror) - Health authorities urge parents to refain from sending children exhibiting symptoms of Dengue, Chikungunya or influenza, to preschool or school, Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) Consultant Pediatrician Dr. Deepal Perera said.

He told the Daily Mirror about the importance of rest and proper medical attention for children showing symptoms like high fever, joint pain or fatigue.

Dr. Perera noted that sending sick children to school not only risks their health but also increase the chances of spreading infection to others.

He warned that the infected children can be protected from further mosquito bites by using nets, while uninfected children should also be shielded to avoid new infections.

He also highlighted that Dengue can cause severe fatigue and complications, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.

However, areas such as Maharagama, Kottawa and other parts of the Colombo District are reporting higher numbers of cases, with the Western Province experiencing a significant increase in both Dengue and
Chikungunya infections.