Dengue Surge: Over 1,000 New Infections in a Single Day

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka is witnessing a sharp surge in dengue infections, with 1,069 new cases reported within a single day, according to the National Dengue Control Unit.

Officials confirmed that the total number of dengue cases reported across the country so far this year has reached 47,179, indicating a significant increase compared to the same period in 2024 and 2025.

Health authorities have identified 112 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions as high-risk dengue zones, reflecting the widespread nature of the outbreak.

Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, Dr. Kapila Kannangara, stated that the highest number of cases continues to be reported from the Maharagama MOH division, which remains a critical hotspot in the ongoing outbreak.

He further noted that the disease is spreading rapidly in several other areas, including districts such as Matara, Galle, and Ratnapura, as well as Panadura in the Kalutara District and Biyagama in the Gampaha District.

Health officials emphasized that the current spike represents a clear and concerning increase compared to previous years. The rapid spread has prompted authorities to intensify monitoring and intervention measures in affected areas.

Amid the rising threat, a special high-level discussion on dengue control and mosquito eradication is scheduled to take place today under the leadership of Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.

All relevant stakeholders from the health sector have been invited to participate.

The dengue control programme is being implemented under the government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative.