Several hospitals in the Western Province have reached full capacity following a sharp increase in dengue admissions, according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).
Acting Director Dr. Kapila Kannangara said the growing number of patients has placed significant pressure on the healthcare system, making it increasingly difficult for hospitals to manage and treat dengue cases effectively.
He cautioned that if infections continue to rise, the number of dengue-related fatalities could also increase.
Dr. Kannangara noted that 52.4% of the 59,638 dengue cases reported nationwide this year have been recorded from the Western Province.
In response to the escalating situation, health authorities have identified 22 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the province’s three districts as high-risk areas. A week-long intensive dengue control campaign is currently underway in these locations.
He said the effectiveness of the programme will be assessed at the end of the week, after which further action will be determined.
The NDCU has also developed a three-stage response plan comprising short-term, medium-term and long-term measures to contain the outbreak. However, Dr. Kannangara said immediate priority is being given to emergency interventions, as the current situation has become critical and hospitals are facing severe capacity constraints.
He urged the public to actively support dengue prevention efforts, warning that continued increases in infections could place further strain on the health sector and result in a higher number of deaths records.
