Sri Lanka has recorded more than 80,000 dengue cases this year, with the death toll increasing to 59, according to health authorities.
Officials have expressed concern that the public is still not taking sufficient responsibility in preventing the spread of dengue. As of midnight yesterday, the total number of reported dengue cases had reached 80,114.
During this month alone, 24,739 dengue cases have been reported, marking the highest monthly total recorded so far this year. The highest number of infections continues to be reported from the Gampaha and Colombo districts.
Meanwhile, the Beruwala and Payagala Medical Officer of Health (MOH) Office has initiated legal action against the owners of six multi-day fishing vessels undergoing repairs at the Beruwala Fisheries Harbour. The action follows an inspection that found mosquito breeding sites on the vessels after several workers at the repair yard contracted dengue.
In the Pannala Divisional Secretariat Division, 239 dengue cases have been reported, prompting health authorities to launch a dengue control programme led by Public Health Inspectors (PHIs). During the operation, 22 factories and other premises found to be maintaining mosquito breeding conditions were issued red notices and warnings.
The Public Health Inspectors' Association of Sri Lanka stated that dengue continues to spread despite the current dry weather, emphasizing that public negligence remains the primary factor contributing to the increase in cases.
Health authorities continue to urge the public to eliminate stagnant water, maintain clean surroundings, and actively participate in dengue prevention efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
