25% of dengue cases reported are Children, says National Dengue Control Unit

COLOMBO (News 1st) - In a concerning revelation, the National Dengue Control Unit has reported that a staggering 25 percent of dengue cases reported are identified from children. To address this alarming situation, Dr. Nalin Ariyaratne, the director of the unit, emphasizes the urgent need for parents to be vigilant.

Dr. Ariyaratne advises that the usual waiting period of two days before seeking medical attention for infants displaying symptoms of fever should be disregarded. Immediate medical attention is crucial in these cases to ensure timely treatment and effective management.

Moreover, individuals between the ages of 20 and 60 are at a significantly higher risk of contracting dengue. Dr. Ariyaratne stresses that if a person in this age group experiences fever symptoms persisting for more than two days, seeking immediate medical attention is imperative.

Furthermore, the director of the National Dengue Control Unit highlights the importance of individuals with compromised immune systems promptly seeking medical assistance to prevent potential complications.

In a separate development, Dr. Ruwan Wijayamuni, the Chief Medical Officer of Health at the Colombo Municipal Council, has taken strict measures against mosquito breeding sites in Colombo. Legal action has been initiated against 475 individuals for hosting such breeding sites, demonstrating the authorities' commitment to tackling this issue effectively.

Additionally, the National Dengue Control Unit announces the implementation of a special dengue prevention program at Dhamma schools today. This initiative aims to raise awareness and educate the community about preventive measures to combat the spread of dengue.

In light of these crucial updates, parents, individuals, and communities must prioritize dengue prevention, take immediate action when symptoms arise, and cooperate with the authorities to mitigate the impact of this disease