Dengue puts PHIs in tight spot as frontline health workers fall ill

• Legal action was initiated against 494 households, 134 government and private institutions, four schools, and two religious premises during  June alone
• Dengue death toll rises to 45; daily case count tops 1,200

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

Amid a worsening dengue outbreak, frontline health workers engaged in dengue control efforts are facing increasing challenges as more Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) themselves contract the disease   
At least eight PHIs attached to the Colombo District, who have been actively involved in dengue prevention operations, have tested positive for dengue, the Public Health Inspectors’ Association said.  
Speaking to the Daily Mirror, PHI Union President K.P. Boralessa said more than 20 PHIs have potentially been affected by dengue, with several other members of the health workforce also reported to have contracted the disease.  
“If this situation continues, we will be placed in a difficult position when carrying out dengue prevention activities,” he said.  
Boralessa warned that the dengue situation in the Colombo District is rapidly deteriorating, placing additional pressure on frontline health workers responsible for controlling the spread of the disease.  
Meanwhile, he said legal action was taken against 1,186 individuals during dengue inspection raids conducted throughout June for failing to remove mosquito breeding sites and comply with public health regulations.  

The enforcement operations generated Rs. 12.25 million in fines.  
According to Boralessa, legal action was initiated against 494 households, 134 government and private institutions, four schools, and two religious premises during June alone.  
He stressed that authorities would continue to take legal action against those violating dengue prevention regulations, regardless of their status.  
Meanwhile, the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) said Sri Lanka’s dengue death toll has increased to 45 this year, while the total number of reported cases has climbed to 65,034,   
Acting Director of the NDCU, Dr. Kapila Kannangara said a sharp increase in infections has been recorded during the first eight days of July, with 9,654 cases reported nationwide.  
Dr. Kannangara, said around 1,300 dengue cases were reported on Tuesday (July 8) alone.  
According to the Acting Director, the highest number of dengue cases this year has been reported from the Gampaha District with 13,332 infections, followed by Colombo with 13,150 cases. Matara has reported 4,600 cases, while Kalutara has recorded 4,354 infections.  
Dr. Kannangara also warned that several major hospitals are operating at maximum capacity due to the surge in dengue patients, resulting in severe congestion and mounting pressure on healthcare services.