Over 30,000 Dengue Cases: Sri Lanka Steps Up Fight

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Dengue Control Unit has revealed that 144,250 premises across Sri Lanka were inspected during the recently concluded National Mosquito Eradication Week, held last week as part of a nationwide campaign to combat the spread of dengue.

Dr. Prashila Samaraweera stated that 35,495 locations were identified as potential mosquito breeding grounds. Among these, 4,275 premises were confirmed to contain mosquito larvae.

The campaign targeted a wide range of locations including schools, government institutions, factories, religious sites, and households. 

Notably, 400 school premises were inspected, with 226 found to have conditions conducive to mosquito breeding. Additionally, 131,789 homes were checked, and 31,967 were flagged as potential breeding sites.

Government institutions were also part of the inspection drive, with 955 facilities examined and 292 identified as high-risk areas.

As part of enforcement measures, 3,812 red notices were issued and 982 legal actions were taken against those failing to maintain hygienic environments.

Dr. Samaraweera emphasized the importance of sustained community engagement and vigilance, especially given the alarming statistics: 30,228 dengue cases have been reported across the country so far this year, with 16 confirmed deaths. 

The highest number of cases has been recorded in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Eastern provinces.