As a precautionary measure to curb the spread, four major schools in the Deniyaya Education Zone were closed yesterday and today following health recommendations. Deniyaya Zonal Education Director Nishaka Hettigoda confirmed that Deniyaya Central College, Deniyaya Rajapaksa Maha Vidyalaya, St. Matthew's Bilingual School, and Pallegama Siddhartha Primary School remain closed.
Health authorities suspect the illness to be a viral condition, possibly viral meningitis. Symptoms include high fever, cough, cold, sore throat, sneezing, headache, body aches, and in some cases, diarrhea. Approximately 47 cases have been reported over the past month, with all patients receiving treatment at the Deniyaya Base Hospital. Most of the affected are children under the age of 14.
Medical experts believe the virus may be spreading through contaminated water or food. Health officials have urged residents in the area to practice strict hygiene, including drinking only boiled water and consuming clean food. Southern Provincial Education Secretary N.R. Pathirana stated that a decision regarding the reopening of the schools will be made based on further medical advice from health authorities.
